Obituary of Jeanne Marie Froeb

Jeanne Froeb, Ph.D, age 93, died peacefully at her home, surrounded by her daughters on May 5, 2023.  Jeanne was born in Bartlesville, Oklahoma to Margaret and A.H Riney.  She attended Bartlesville High and received her BA from Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts. She also received an M.A. from the University of Tulsa, followed there with a Ph.D in British Literature.

Jeanne married Charles Froeb in 1952.  The couple moved to Chicago and returned to Tulsa in 1954, where they remained the rest of their lives.

Jeanne taught at Tulsa Community College for 30 years, from its inception until her retirement. She was an inspiring professor for many students.  Jeanne was an accomplished writer and an avid reader. She lived independently in her house until her death, and not surprisingly, the house overflowed with books.  

She balanced her career and family with style and grace.  She was devoted to her husband and children.  She was beautiful, gracious, kind, and clever. Everyone enjoyed her wit and sense of humor. Even as her health declined, Jeanne was still ready with a quick retort. 

She loved to travel with her sisters, mother and daughters, and they enjoyed many wonderful adventures together.  Jeanne and Charlie entertained frequently in their home, and the parties always ended with singing around the piano while Charlie played. The Froeb daughters have fond memories of sitting at the top of the staircase and admiring guests in their cocktail attire, while listening to hearty singing and thunderous piano playing.

 Jeanne was a member of the Junior League of Tulsa, St. John’s Episcopal Church and Southern Hills Country Club. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Herman Froeb.  She is survived by her daughter Janet Froeb, daughter and son-in-law Julie and Douglas Phillips, and daughter and son-in-law Edith and George Coen.  She is also survived by her granddaughter, Kathleen and her husband Flavio Gallo, grandson Myles Coen, and granddaughter Grace and her husband Chris Riess. Her great-grandchildren are Audrey and Leah Gallo.  

A private memorial service and celebration of life will be held at a later date.  

The family would like to thank cousins Kevin Bennett and Cindy Bennett for their care, concern, and weekly visits to Jeanne. Special acknowledgement and profound gratitude are given to Jerry Schuster for his exceptional private nursing care. The family also expresses their thanks to caregivers and friends Dakota Crowder, Michelle Gahagan, Emily Oliphant, Shaunisty Brocklesby, Chen Duncan, Kelly Watt, Carrie Thurston, and Miller Hospice. Donations can be made to the VETri Program at the Tulsa Glassblowing School, 7440 E. 7^th Street, Tulsa, OK 74112.