Jean A. Saggars

Jean A. Saggars, age 77, of Ligonier, passed into the arms of Jesus on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at Avalon Village in Ligonier. She was born on November 8, 1947 to Kenneth & Alice (Noe) Deetz in Kendallville and grew up on a farm near Helmer, Indiana. She had great memories of days filled with hard work but also lots of fun and laughter—especially as she sat with her parents and 5 lively siblings around the dinner table sharing family stories and tales of the day.

The love of God, family, and friends that she learned in childhood carried her into adulthood as Jean married David Saggars on March 30, 1968, at the Helmer Methodist Church and formed her own family. Dave and Jean enjoyed making many memories during vacations with their children and extended family and then on their own adventures during their 56 years of marriage.

Jean was a much loved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She loved Jesus and grew in her understanding of Him as she studied His word through different Bible studies and as a long-time member of Burr Oak Church. God’s love was reflected in the way Jean cared about others—her friendliness, kindness, and willingness to sacrifice her time and own desires to help others. She liked to bring levity and joy into everyday life, and her sense of fun and mischievous humor made her a person that drew others to her. She loved her family and friends with depth and loyalty and was often a social butterfly as she tried to faithfully connect with all. She treasured her grandchildren, always making time to talk with them, help them, and enjoy being involved in their lives.

Mrs. Saggars will be remembered fondly for her 31 years spent as a recess teacher and media tech in the library for Perry School, West Noble Elementary, and West Noble Primary. She loved kids and opening new worlds to them through storytelling and an enjoyment of books. Many students adored her for her kindness, outgoing personality, and enthusiasm.

Jean is survived by her husband, David; two children, Joe (Jennifer) Saggars, Cheri (Brandon) Boyd; five grandchildren, Megan, Andrew, Caleb, Carson Saggars, Olivia Boyd—all of Ligonier; three brothers, James (Bonnie) Deetz of Helmer, Donald (Becky) Deetz of Auburn, John (Nancy) Deetz of Angola; one sister, Judy (Harley) Rensch of Corunna; four sisters- in-law, Louise Deetz of Gilroy, CA, Judy Moser of Ligonier, Dee Saggars of Olathe, KS, Sandy Saggars of Ligonier; and brother-in-law, Kent Saggars of Ligonier. She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Ronald Deetz; three brothers-in-law, Steve Saggars, Maurice Moser, Quentin Joe Saggars; and sister-in-law Joni Saggars.

Friends and family are invited for a time of visitation on Thursday, December 19, 2024 from 2-4 & 6-8 pm at Stone’s Hill Community Church, 151 W. Stone’s Hill Road, Ligonier, IN 46767.

A Celebration of Jean’s Life will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 with visitation at 10am and the service at 11am at Stone’s Hill Community Church. Pastor Tim Yazel will officiate. A private burial will take place at a later date.

Jean’s family would like to give heartfelt thanks to the many family members and friends who have offered prayers, love, and encouragement to her and to them through her time of illness as Jean journeyed to Jesus. She is Home!

Memorial contributions may be directed to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, 6316 Mutual Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46825.

Yeager Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.yeagerfuneralhome.com