Jean M. Deere

ALBANY - It is with great sadness, the family of Jean Deere announces her passing. She died peacefully on October 29, 2026 at the age of 93 at Kingsway Arms Nursing Center in Schenectady, NY. Jean was born in Albany, NY and she was the daughter of Irving Sayers and Lucy (Przekurat) Sayers. She graduated with honors from Albany High School Class of 1951. Jean was employed by the Synod of Albany for over 27 years before retiring in 1994. She was a member of the First Church in Albany for many years and served as a deaconess. After retiring, Jean took many classes because she loved to learn as much as she could. 

Jean was predeceased in 2017 by her beloved husband of 64 years, Harvey Deere. Mom, we know you are at peace now that you are with Dad again. Jean loved the opera and she and Harvey were able to attend many performances at the Metropolitan Opera with the Siena College Opera Club. One of her greatest joys was seeing Pavarotti! Her family will always have fond memories of Jean spontaneously conducting an orchestra from her couch while listening to music. 

Jean is survived by her daughters Lynne Blanchard (Philip III) of Pittsfield, MA, Terry Deere Riley (Michael) of Colonie, NY and Dana Gatz (Gregory) of Pittsboro, NC; her grandchildren Jason Hall, Jessica Frye (Josh); her great granddaughters Camryn and Jordyn Hall and Layla Frye and great grandson River Frye; Jean’s sister-in-law Mary Deere of Colonie, and by many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Our family would like to thank Kingsway Arms and Kingsway Home Care for the many years they cared for Jean. 

Funeral services will be held privately at the convenience of the family.  There will be no calling hours.  Entombment will be at Memory Gardens Cemetery. To leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.