Joan Clarissa Jensen, 95, of Sheridan, WY passed quietly on November 3, 2018 at Westview Health Care Center with family at her side. Joan was born on August 15, 1923 in Weymouth, Dorset, England to Joseph and Olive (Cole) Hillier.

Joan met her husband, Bernard (Ben) Jensen during WWII when he was serving with the Navy. After the war, they married in England. Remaining in the service, Ben left for the U.S. and Joan made a solo trip on the Queen Mary at the age of 21. This ship was tasked to reunite WWII war brides with their American husbands. Joan and Ben eventually settled in Sheridan, WY.

Joan was an excellent seamstress and for 40 years worked beside her husband doing the sewing for their upholstery business. She was a volunteer at Sheridan Memorial Hospital. She was also a long time Secretary for the Transatlantic Brides and Parents Association (TBPA) a national organization for War Brides who emigrated from England. Joan studied hard and became a United States citizen.

She was a shining example of the Greatest Generation, she lived her life with grace and beauty. She was beloved by many and made good friends wherever she was. She touched many lives. Along with her fellow WWII war brides, she had the honor of meeting Queen Elizabeth II in Sheridan on October 12, 1984.  The Queen spoke to each of the ladies of the TBPA for several minutes.  When visiting Joan, you could always count on a good cup of English tea!

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and two older sisters, Olive and Irene.  She is survived by daughters Hilarie Betz of Loveland, CO, and Joanne Redder of Sheridan, WY; and grandchildren Shelley Betz of Lander, WY and Shane Stroup of Minnesota. Also surviving, are a niece (Jill) and a nephew (Greg) in England. She will be in our memories and hearts forever.  Heaven has gained another angel.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Online condolences may be written at www.championfh.com.  Arrangements are under the direction of Champion Funeral Home.

Sheridan & Johnson County Obituaries Uncategorized