Jeanne Marie (McIlhenny) McCurdy, affectionately known as “DeeDee,” passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on May 11, 2026, at the age of 91.
Born on July 22, 1934, in Germantown, Pa., Jeanne grew up in nearby Mount Airy and later attended Ursinus College, where she studied physics at a time when few women entered the field.
After meeting her future husband, Charles Eugene “Bud” McCurdy, she graduated early with a degree in mathematics to prepare for their next chapter. They married in 1954 and shared a remarkable 70 years together, raising four children.
Jeanne began visiting Cape May Point as a teenager, which started a family tradition and today the Point remains the special summer gathering place for the extended family. Jeanne was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Known for her intelligence, kindness, quick wit, and selfless nature, she was the stabilizing presence in her family and quietly dedicated her life to caring for others. She loved reading, music, gardening, sewing, cooking and learning.
Her Christian faith was central to her life. Jeanne faithfully served others through her church communities and was known by family and friends as a dedicated prayer warrior whose love for the Lord deepened throughout life.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bud; her son, John Charles McCurdy; her brother, John McIlhenny; and her brother-in-law, Alexander “Lex” McCurdy.
She is survived by children Lynne O’Connor, David McCurdy (Nicole Adams) and Anne McCurdy; daughter-in-law Angela McCurdy; sister Martie Kennedy; sister-in-law Linda McIlhenny; brother-in-law David McCurdy; eight grandsons; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held Monday, July 6, at Willowdale Chapel, 675 Unionville Road, Kennett Square, Pa. (visitation at 10 a.m., service at 11 a.m.). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Willowdale Chapel Care Fund.
