Jean Schwinghamer

Jean Legere Schwinghamer was born January 14, 1930 in Marlborough, Mass., the daughter of the late Winfred and Genevieve Voutoure Legere. During her lifetime, Jean accomplished more than most, being the first female promoter of auto racing in the U.S. and a NASCAR scorer at the Nashville Motor Speedway. Jean spent time as a guest columnist for The Informer in Spring Hill, a florist and realtor. She was an avid gardener and enjoyed tole painting. She was devoted to her church, St. Catherine Catholic Church, where she had last served as the coordinator for the Senior Citizens luncheons. On January 9, 2000, her beloved husband, John, preceded her in death.

Jean passed away on Sunday, January 9, at Sterling House in Columbia.

Survivors include her devoted daughters: Jeanette Randy Sparkman of Columbia and Jayne Schulle of Nashville; two sisters: Yvonne St. Hilaire and Eileen St. Ball, both of Townsend, Mass.; 8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren as well as two special friends: Jeanne Binford and Candice Barton, both of Columbia. In addition to her husband and parents, Jean was preceded in death by a daughter: Judy Brace and a sister: Jan Schwerking.

A funeral mass for Jean will be conducted Saturday at 10:00 A.M. at St. Catherine Catholic Church with Father Davis Chackaleckel officiating. Burial will follow in Polk Memorial Gardens. The family will visit with friends on Friday from 4:00 -8:00 P.M. at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia.

Pallbearers will be Ryan King, Julian King, Drew Sparkman, Ken Grappin, Chris Rains, Kevin Thompson, Gene McShane and Dan McCulley. Honorary pallbearers will be Maria Kis, staff of Sterling House and Caris Health Care and members of the St. Catherine Senior Citizens Luncheon Group.