Jean Slagle, 83

Jean (Romine) Slagle Oct. 13, 1941 — April 6, 2025, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

Jean Slagle, beloved wife of 38 years, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully in her home April 6, 2025, at the age of 83.

She was born Oct. 13, 1941, in Rule, Texas. Jean was a 1960 graduate of Sweetwater High School. Jean married her first husband in 1961, and together they welcomed a daughter, Donita. Due to her husband's service in the Navy, the family moved frequently, living in various states from Massachusetts to California before settling in Idaho Falls, Idaho, in 1967.

After their divorce, Jean began a career in healthcare at Sacred Heart Hospital in Idaho Falls, starting in the emergency department and eventually rising to head of administration. She also made history as the first female volunteer firefighter in Ammon, Idaho.

In 1986, Jean married the love of her life, Lyle Slagle. After traveling the country and going on many adventures together, the beautiful couple moved to Coeur d'Alene in 2001, where they built their home and enjoyed retirement together.

Jean had a vibrant and creative spirit. She joined the Red Hot Mamas and later helped establish the Blazen Divaz, becoming the lead of their sewing team. Over the years, she traveled with these groups across the world and back home again to her loving husband. Her creativity shone through the unique costumes she crafted for the group, and she was known among friends and family for her exceptional seamstress skills. Every year, she made a special batch of chocolate turtles — a much-anticipated treat for those lucky enough to receive them.

She was a natural leader — organized, punctual and always reliable. Jean played Mahjong regularly with friends and enjoyed card and board games with family and neighbors. One of her favorite pastimes was visiting the casino, where she brought her signature determination and spirit. Though she never shared much about her wins and losses, she sure did seem to win more often than not.

Jean was deeply devoted to her family, who meant the world to her. She is survived by her husband, Lyle Slagle; daughter Donita Land; stepson Craig Gullixson; stepdaughters Karen and Daryl Deringer, and Connie and Phillip Wagoner; her brother, Randall and Nola Romine; Teresa Cox, one of many nieces and nephews, grandchildren, Chiane and Jake Williams, Lacey Kriegh and Cameron Dennett, Rick and Rhenda Mattern, Brandon and Kresada Mattern, and Mallory and John Malee; 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents, six of her siblings, and her dear friend, Julia Parmann.

Jean will be remembered for her strength, warmth, creativity, and unwavering love for those around her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be missed every single day.

Jean’s celebration of life will be held from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 11, 2025, at Yates Funeral Home Hayden Gathering Center, 373 E. Hayden Ave., Hayden, ID 83835. Her online memorial is at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.