Helen “Jean” Wilcox was born on September 11, 1925, in Helvey, Nebraska, to Ruby A. (Dallas) and Lawrence L. Matzke. She returned to her heavenly home on April 27, 2026, surrounded by her family.

     Jean grew up attending school in Western, Nebraska, where she enjoyed spending time on the farm with her sister, Reta. Following the war, she attended Nebraska Wesleyan University, where she met Milton “Lyle” Wilcox. They were married on June 5, 1948 in Western. After welcoming their first son, Steven, Jean returned to school and earned her degree in Elementary Education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Jean and Lyle later welcomed two more sons, Mark and Bruce. Nothing brought Jean more pride and joy than her sons and their families.

     Following her graduation from UNL, Jean began her teaching career in Lincoln. She later taught in York, Aurora, and McCook, Nebraska, before moving with her family to Andimeshk, Iran, in 1968, where she taught at the American school. During their time abroad, the family traveled extensively before returning to McCook in 1973. Jean taught kindergarten with McCook Public Schools until her retirement in 1990. Even after retirement, she continued to touch the lives of children through substitute teaching, as well as through her involvement in PEO, her church, and the cherished time she spent with her family.

     Jean enjoyed reading and time at the lake, especially fishing, boating, and waterskiing. Her faith remained steadfast throughout her life. She treasured the lifelong friendships she formed, often gathering for hot dog cookouts. In her later years, she cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren after school.

     Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Lyle Wilcox; her son, Steven Wilcox; her sister, Reta Schwisow Alberti; her brother-in-law, Lauren Schwisow; her parents; and many family members and dear friends.

     She is survived by her sons, Mark (Betty) and Bruce (Debra) of McCook; her daughter-in-law, Debbie of Aloha, Oregon; her grandchildren, Brandon (Molly), Brent (Crissy), Whitney (Gavin) Holewa, Laura (Matt) Clause, Sarah (Adam) Powers, Elizabeth (Willie) Ransom, Ethan, Grant (Gabby), Reid, and Elsa; 23 great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Constance “Susie” (Willis) Skinner; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

     Jean's family will greet friends from 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM on Thursday evening, April 30, 2026 at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Capel in McCook.

     Memorial services are scheduled for 10:00 AM on Friday morning, May 1, 2026 at Memorial Methodist Church in McCook with Pastor Jeff Kelley officiating. Burial in Fort McPherson National Cemetery in Maxwell will follow services.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the McCook Educational Foundation in memory of Jean Wilcox. Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.