Jean Audrey Upgren slipped away peacefully on Saturday, April 22, 2023 with Dwayne, her beloved husband of 54 years, by her side.

Jean was born March 5, 1934 to Raymond and Wilimine Nelson in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was united in marriage to Dwayne on April 11, 1969. Jean and Dwayne moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma in retirement.

Professionally, she was a gymnastics instructor, Target store detective, Fairview Hospital intake coordinator, and homemaker. Personally, she was THE mother, an encourager, an advisor, and a spitfire! Though physically measuring under five-foot-tall, she carried herself with a 7-foot-tall spirit.

Jean had a love for the truth found in the Word of God. In 1995, she obtained an Associate of Arts in Ministerial Training from the Antioch Christian Training School (ACTS). She was active with her church communities through bible studies, prayer ministries, mission trips, volunteering with kids and inner-city programs, and more.

Jean is survived by her husband Dwayne, son David (Lori) Upgren of Saint Paul, MN, son Jack (Mary) Shepard of Lexington, KY, son Michael Shepard of FL, daughter Patricia, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and her faithful companion Little Red. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Betty Lee and Gretchen Wagner, son Raymond Shepard, grandson Albert Shepard, and great grandson Brenden Sneed.

Jean will be interred at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Arrangements are entrusted to Stanley's Funeral Services. The family appreciates receiving your memories and condolences. In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations may be made in Jean's honor to the Humane Society of the United States.