Delores Jean McElheny

Delores Jean McElheny, 93, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. Born in South Bend on April 26, 1933, Jean was the daughter of Willard and Mildred (Workman) Wertz.

A proud graduate of South Bend Central High School, Jean met the love of her life, James McElheny, while they were still in grade school. They became high school sweethearts and were united in marriage on October 25, 1952, at Evangel Heights United Methodist Church in South Bend. Jim and Jean moved to Plymouth in 1958, and together they shared nearly 74 years of marriage, building a beautiful life centered around family, love, and the memories they created along the way.

Family was truly the heart of Jean’s life. She found her greatest joy in being a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, cherishing every opportunity to spend time with those she loved. Whether gathered around the table for Sunday dinners, celebrating holidays together, or enjoying family summer vacations in Three Rivers, MI when her children were young, Jean treasured the simple moments that brought her loved ones close. She and Jim also looked forward to their annual February escapes to Florida, creating even more cherished memories throughout the years.

Jean devoted her early years to caring for her home and raising her children before beginning her career as a teacher’s aide at Washington Elementary in Plymouth. She retired in 1995. Outside of work, she enjoyed tending to her flower gardens and enthusiastically cheering on her beloved Indiana Hoosiers.

Those who knew Jean will fondly remember her outgoing personality, spunky spirit, and love of conversation. She never knew a stranger and could easily fill a room with laughter. Above all, Jean will be remembered for the unwavering love she had for her family and the lasting example she set of what it means to cherish the people who matter most.

Jean is survived by her husband, Jim; their children, Lori (Stephen) Keiser of Plymouth, IN and Robert (Deborah) McElheny of Gas City, IN; grandchildren, Abby (Michael) Todt of Fort Wayne, IN, Dr. Heidi Keiser (Stephen Borengasser) of Salt Lake City, UT, Andrew (Morgan) McElheny of Whitestown, IN, Ashley (Kyle) Benedict of Westfield, IN, and Josh (Gipson) Barton of Indianapolis, IN; great-grandchildren, Julia Todt, Greta Todt, Annika McElheny, Ty Benedict, and Wesley Barton; her sister, Betty Glassburn of South Bend, IN; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willard and Mildred.

Private services for family and close friends will be held on Thursday, November 5, to honor Jean’s life, and she will be laid to rest at the columbarium at Oak Hill Cemetery in Plymouth.

Memorial contributions may be made to Caring Cove Hospice, 3120 N. Home Street, Mishawaka, IN 46545.