Jean Elaine (Ormsbee) Brunell, 88, of Chicopee, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, held close by the family she cherished throughout her life.

Born on July 25, 1937, in Claremont, New Hampshire, Jean was the eldest of four children and the daughter of the late Fred Wesley Ormsbee and June (Fisher) Ormsbee. From an early age, she carried a quiet strength and a steady kindness that would shape every chapter of her life.

Jean was predeceased by her beloved husband, Sheldon Brunell, her high school sweetheart and lifelong companion. They married in August 1958. She was also predeceased by her brother, Dean Ormsbee.

In retirement, Jean found her greatest joy in the company of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was an avid reader, a devoted crossword solver, and a familiar presence at Barnes & Noble and the local library. She cherished visits to Maine to spend time with her son and his partner, and she delighted in the energy of her grandchildren and their friends, who made her feel forever young. Jean will be remembered for her warm heart, gentle spirit, and the unconditional love she offered to all who knew her.

She leaves behind her loving family: her sons, Matthew Brunell of South Hadley, and Mark Brunell and his partner Steven of Portugal; her daughter, Tammy Clark and her husband Ralph of South Hadley; her sister, Sally Paquette and her husband Robert of Holyoke; her brother, Jack Ormsbee and his wife Terry of Easthampton; her grandchildren, Emily Jacques and her husband Andrew of Chicopee, and Chandler Clark and his wife Danielle of South Hadley; and her three great-grandchildren, Peyton, Gemma, and Wesley, who brought her endless joy.

The family offers heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff at Harmony House and to all of Jean’s hospice caregivers for the tenderness and dignity they provided in her final days.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the O’Brien Family Funeral Home, 33 Lamb Street, South Hadley. A funeral service will follow at 5:30 pm. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jean’s honor may be made to: Harmony House of Western Massachusetts, c/o Gina Mazza, 66 View Street, Chicopee, MA 01020.