Jean Ellen Ketterman

Jean Ellen Ketterman, 81, of York, PA, passed away peacefully at her home on December 18, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, Aunt, and friend whose life was centered around her family. She found her greatest joy in spending Christmas with her children, grandchildren, and friends, creating memories that will be cherished forever. She especially enjoyed family vacations to the beach, trips to Wildwood, Myrtle Beach, and Florida, and time spent at the family cabin in Potter County.

A loyal and enthusiastic supporter, she rarely missed her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. A true sports enthusiast, she was known for her caring, compassionate, genuine, and nurturing spirit.

Jean dedicated 40 years of her life to caring for others as a medical assistant, a profession that reflected her deep compassion and commitment to service.

Her life’s greatest joy was her family, and she is survived by her devoted husband and partner, Michael R. Ketterman. Her love lives on through her children, Stephen Gilbert, Michael T. Ketterman, Troy Ketterman, and Richelle Narber, as well as her son-in-law Robert Narber and daughter-in-law Adrienne Ketterman, all of whom she held close to her heart. She was a proud and doting grandmother to nine—Shane (Brielle), Trent, Kyle, Ryan, Landen, Brittany (Zachary), Emily (Christopher), Sarah, and Alyssa—and found special delight in her four great-grandchildren: Watson, Grayson, Sawyer, and Lexi. She will be deeply missed by her sister, Margie Behler (Robert), along with the many nieces and nephews who filled her life with laughter. Whether she was cheering from the sidelines while watching her grandkids play, offering quiet words of wisdom, or simply enjoying the company of those she loved, her warmth and kindness were the heartbeat of her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey and Louise Smith; stepfather, Bernell Little; and daughter-in-law, Sharon Gilbert (Worley), and brother-in-law, Robert Behler.

A celebration of Jean's life will be held on January 2, 2026, at Leber Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Inc. 47 North Queen Street, Dover, PA 17315. Her visitation will be from 9:30 to 11:00 AM, with her celebration of life starting at 11:00 AM.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her love, positive attitude, and unwavering devotion to her family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jean Ellen Ketterman, please visit our floral store.