Jean A. Rickett, age 84, passed away on January 15, 2026 after a long illness, with her family by her side at Gouverneur Hospital. A funeral service was held on Tuesday January 20, 2026 at 3 PM at Frary Funeral Home, 33 Park Street, Gouverneur with Rev. James Warrington officiating. Calling hours preceded the service from 1 to 3 PM.
Jean was born on March 24,1941 and lived in Hannawa Falls, to the late Leon M. and Luella E. (Holden) Way. She graduated from Massena Central School in 1959. Jean was married to the late Orin (Bub) D. Durham. On July 15, 2000, she married William Rickett at United Methodist Church, Gouverneur NY.
She is survived by her husband, William Rickett, her children, Randy Way, Madonna (Bruce) Westlake, Jean Sawyer, Daniel (Shannon) Way, Gerald (Fannie) Way, Leon (Daisy) Way, Paul Smith and Donald (JR) (Rachel) Durham and stepson Orin (Bimbo) Durham. Jean has multiple grandchildren, and several great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her parents, two sons, William (Billy) J. Durham and Lynden (Lenny) E. Way, six grandsons, Brian J. Trent, Alan Michael Way, Daniel Way II, Kenneth W. Sawyer, Skyler D. Way, Gerald (Bear) F. Way and Elizabeth (Tootie) Durham, granddaughter Nicky White, great-granddaughter Desree White, Emma Way.
Jean enjoyed spending time with her family. Jean enjoyed her job at the Watertown Daily Times for 30 + years. After retiring, Jean enjoyed family dinners, arts and crafts. Jean lived a remarkable life and loved her family.
Memorial donations in Jean’s memory may be made to St. Judes Cancer Hospital.
Online condolences may be shared with Jeans family at www.frayfuneralhome.com.