Lois Jean Kearns

Our incredible wife, mom, grandma, sister, aunt and friend passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, after a long battle with stroke related illnesses.
Lois was born in Rushville, Nebraska and attended grades 1-8 in a one-room country school house and grades 9-12 at Rushville High School. After graduation she attended a cosmetology school in Denver, Colorado. After graduation she returned to Rushville and married Jim, her high school sweetheart. She had two sons, Jim & Dave. In later years, she became interested in playing golf, and with her friends they spent many fun days on the golf course. In addition to golf, she became involved in making ceramic dolls and quilting. Her attention to detail in carving, painting and sewing was amazing. Even with all her hobbies her biggest joy was raising her boys and spending time with her three grandchildren.
After her boys moved from Salt Lake City she decided to go to work for the airlines so she could visit them. She spent a number of years with Eastern and Continental Airlines as a Reservations Agent. Lois was also a long time member of PEO, Philanthropic Educational Organization. Their purpose was to raise scholarship funds for advancing women. Lois served as Vice President for one term. She continued her philanthropic spirit as a member of National Charity League.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, Hiram and Loretta Tiensvold, and sisters, Ginger Ragsdale and Shirley Mangan. She is survived by her husband, Jim, sons, Jim D. (Maggie) and Dave (Kaye), sister, Beverly (Dean) Kockrow and grandchildren, Kalhi, John (Katherine) and Michael plus numerous nieces and nephews.
Special thanks to the staff at St. Marks Rehab., the Highland Care Center and the Essential Care Provider group for the incredible care and kindness that they gave her while she was in their care. Her family will never forget you.
A Celebration of Life will be held for her on March 13, 2025 from 6-8 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use parking and entrance located on the north side of the building.
In lieu of flowers, please send your donation to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital.