Mary Jeannine Stokes

MARY JEANNINE STOKES (JEANNINE), Indianapolis, passed away Tuesday, November 19th. She was born September 20th, 1928, to Charles O. and Hope (Fuller) Grinslade. Jeannine attended PS66 and graduated from Tudor Hall, Class of 1946, attended Wilson College, and graduated from Purdue University in 1951. Her BS Degree in Design lead to a career in several department stores including Burdines in Miami FL, Wasson’s, and finally LS Ayers in Indianapolis.

Jeannine was a lifelong member of Tabernacle Presbyterian Church (Tab). On December 12, 1959, Jeannine married Paul James "Jim" Stokes at Tab, and they were blessed with three sons: Paul (Anne), Charlton (Catherine), and John. Their beloved grandchildren include Lauren Stokes (Sal Chavez), P.J. Stokes IV, Elizabeth Elliott, Ryan Gertiser (Natalie), Reilly Stokes, Isabel Stokes; and great-grandchildren Olivia and Evan Elliott; and Kaedence, Easton and Lacey Gertiser; and beloved nieces Kathy Davis (Bill) and Christine Grinslade and families, all of whom mourn her passing. 

Jeannine considered herself fortunate that Jim made it possible for her to be a “stay at home mom”. As her boys grew up, she also devoted many hours to their alma mater Park Tudor School (PT). She chaired the PT House and Garden Tour, presided over the PT Mothers Association, and was a member of the PT Board of Directors for 6 years. She was also very involved in the Rental Gallery (now closed) at the Indianapolis Museum of Art (now Newfields).

While a dedicated and lifelong Hoosier, Jeannine’s heart was in the South Carolina low country and Hilton Head Island at their getaway home which provided many happy memories. She also loved bird watching with Jim and they had many excursions with family friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the National Audubon Society in Jeannine’s honor; or a gift to the charity of your choice. The Stokes family wishes to thank Donna Chambly for her exceptionally help and care for Jeannine. Thanks also to the entire staff of Compassus and Senior Home Companions.

Friends may call from 10am until 11am on Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, 418 E. 34th Street, Indianapolis, where funeral services will immediately follow beginning at 11am. Burial will follow services in Crown Hill Cemetery.