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Jean M. (Tolini) Croak, of Franklin, MA, passed away unexpectedly on May 6, 2026. She was the beloved wife of Edward P. Croak, with whom she shared over 50 years of marriage.
Jean is survived by her loving children, Rob Croak and his wife Renee of Mansfield, MA, and Cathy Shibley and her husband Matt of Plymouth, MA.
Jean was a proud and loving grandmother to Courtney, Corinne and Colleen Croak, and Patrick and Michael Shibley. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren and took great joy in hearing about and participating in their lives and accomplishments.
Jean was predeceased by her sister, Dottie Ann Tolini.
Born on March 5, 1947 in Boston, Massachusetts, Jean lived a life dedicated to family, friendship, music, education and community. After graduating from Girls Latin School in Boston, Jean went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree, graduating magna cum laude from the Boston College School of Education in 1968.
Following graduation, Jean began her career as a teacher before moving to Colorado, where she lived for four years. While continuing her teaching career there, she enjoyed competitive square dancing and made friendships that lasted a lifetime. In addition to teaching, Jean held positions of responsibility at Coors Brewing Company and Public Service Company of Colorado.
After returning to Massachusetts, Jean married fellow Boston College alumnus Ed in 1975. They first began raising their family in Brockton, MA, but soon moved to Franklin in 1979.
Jean dedicated herself to her family and community. She volunteered countless hours with the Franklin Public Schools Parent Community Council, always willing to lend a helping hand, volunteering to chaperone numerous field trips, and supporting the schools in any way she could.
Music was a lifelong passion for Jean. She loved singing and was an active member of several singing groups, including Coastline Show Chorus, Voices United, and the Sweet Adelines International Society.
Her warmth and spirit made lasting impressions on all who knew her. It was during Boston College’s 50th anniversary celebration for her graduating class where she was honored as a Golden Eagle, a recognition she treasured. She was so happy to be able to share this milestone and many other great memories with her beloved group of Boston College friends.
One of Jean’s most cherished recent memories was celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary with her family on a Disney cruise, surrounded by the people she loved most. Though she enjoyed many accomplishments and passions throughout her life, nothing mattered more to Jean than her family. Her love and encouragement for her family were constant and unwavering. The love she shared with her husband, children, and especially her grandchildren was the center of her world.
Jean’s kindness, generosity, love of music, and devotion to her family will be remembered always by those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.
Visiting hours will be held on Friday May 15, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Charles F. Oteri and Son Funeral Home, 33 Cottage Street, Franklin, MA.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, May 16, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, One Church Square in Franklin. To view a live stream of the Mass, please visit stmarysfranklin.org
A private burial will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Jean’s memory may be made to the Franklin Food Pantry, 43 West Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038 or franklinfoodpantry.org.
Guestbook www.franklinfuneral.com
