Regina “Jean” Baxter, 77, of Davenport, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House after a brief but courageous battle with bile duct cancer.
Regina Marie was born the first child of LaVerne and Mary (Macri) Qualls on Dec. 5, 1946, in Medford, Mass. The family later relocated to Galesburg, Ill., where Jean graduated from Galesburg High School, Class of 1964.
In April 1968 Jean married John R. Foster, to which a son and daughter were born; they later divorced. On Aug. 1, 2003, Jean was united in marriage to Dwight Baxter.
Jean dedicated the majority of her career to the food service industry, ultimately spending 35 years at North Scott High School. Known as the “Lunch Lady”, she retired in 2013 as kitchen manager.
She enjoyed spending time with family and friends and will be remembered for her beautiful smile and homemade treats. Jean was actively involved with the Girl Scouts, including Troop 1185 leader for 15 years and volunteering at multiple summer day camp programs. Jean also enjoyed bowling with the “Feisty Five,” swimming classes with her YMCA friends, and Circa 21 shows.
Jean is survived by her husband, Dwight; children, Chris (Christine) Foster, Kerri (Jeff) Kibler, and Jason Baxter; 10 grandkids and eight great-grandkids. Siblings include Verne (Peggy) Qualls, Judy Hogan and David Qualls. Brother-in-law Bill (Susan) Jones.
She is preceded in death by her parents, sister Mary Jones, brother Jim Qualls, sister-in-law Patty Qualls, brother-in-law Rick Hogan and granddaughter Lillian Dewbre.
Per Jean’s wishes, no services will be provided. Cremation will be directed by Cremation Society of the Quad Cities. A Celebration of Life will be held later this fall.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in her honor to Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, Scott County Humane Society or King’s Harvest Pet Rescue.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the entire staff at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House. Their commitment to the care, comfort, and compassion for Jean in her final days was nothing short of phenomenal.
Jean will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her memory will live on in our hearts forever.
Condolences may be shared at CremationQC.com.
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