Jeanette L. (McCroskey) Williams

Jeanette (Jan) Lorraine McCroskey Williams, 84, Fargo, ND died peacefully on Thursday, May 28, 2020 at home, surrounded by family and friends. Jeanette was born in Fargo, North Dakota on March 17, 1936 to Eva and Alve McCroskey. She grew up in the Fargo / Buffalo North Dakota region, and attended Central High School. On May 5, 1955, Jeanette was united in marriage with James Allen Williams in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The couple traveled the world through service on behalf of the United States Air Force. They raised four children in domestic and international locations. Their love affair continued until James passed away in 1985. Jeanette was the consummate patriotic spouse that managed the home, four kids, Jim, Jeff (deceased), Joel and Jackie while James was deployed. They made the most of every new military base, living in Germany, Minnesota, Montana, Louisiana, South Carolina and Alaska. Jan shared numerous stories of how they immersed themselves into each community, tried new food and explored the areas they found themselves in. Jeanette worked for the Disabled American Veterans after business college in Minneapolis. She was one of the original Max Factor Girls, and spent many years as an accountant at Sears Department Stores in Montana and Alaska. Jeanette sold commercial real estate in California, and as an inventor, holds a patent for a unique earring holder design still relevant today. After many years away, Jan returned to Fargo in 1998 to spend time with family and friends. Jeanette retired in 1995 to enjoy traveling, visiting with family and playing bingo with her constant companion, Marvin Haugen. Her door was always open to friends. Jan’s house was the place to be to chat, catch up on the news and load up on coffee each day. In recent years, Jan spent numerous hours volunteering at Fargo Air Museum. It reminded her of time spent on military bases and she loved the atmosphere. Beautiful, loving, caring and down to earth are adjectives to describe Jan. That smile would light up a room! Jan had a giving heart and the gift of forgiveness. She lived a blessed life, touched many people, and leaves us with cherished memories. She is survived by her children; James (Brenda)of Florida, Joel ( Judy) of Montana, and Jackie of North Dakota, Grandchildren, Jayson (Joel), Jessica ( Joel), Elizabeth ( Jim) D.J. ( Jackie), great grandchildren, Kopper & Layla ( Jessica) and numerous nieces and nephews. Siblings include, Darrel “Bud” McCroskey, Harlow McCroskey & Pat Cossette, all from Fargo. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Allen Williams; parents, Eva and Alve; son, Jeffrey Williams; and companion, Marvin Haugen of Mapleton A prayer service and celebration of life will take place Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at Fargo Air Museum at 10:00 AM, with a visitation one hour prior. We encourage everyone to wear green as Jan loved her St. Patrick’s Day birthday! In lieu of flowers, memorials would be most meaningful directed to Fargo Air Museum or Alzheimer’s Association. We miss her already. Fargo Air Museum, 1609 19th Ave North, Fargo, ND 58102 Alzheimer’s Association, 2631 12th Ave South, Fargo, ND 58103