Jean Dennis Bliss

Jean Dennis Bliss passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at the age of 102.

Born on February 6, 1924, in Grundy, Virginia, Jean was the beloved daughter of the late John Waldron Dennis and Marion McMaster Marshal Dennis. She spent her childhood on Wildwood Road in a home hand-built by her father, an artistic and innovative man whose creativity left a lasting impression on her life. Jean cherished her summers on Chincoteague Island along the Northern Shores of Virginia, where her mother grew up - memories she carried with her always.

Jean attended Andrew Lewis High School, where she met the love of her life, the late Verne F. Bliss. She later received her teaching degree from Radford College. The young couple briefly moved to North Carolina, where Jean taught school while Verne attended Duke University. They began building their life together and growing their family before returning to Virginia to raise their four children.

Shortly after the birth of their twins, Jean and Verne embarked on a grand adventure, moving their young family to Uruguay, South America, where they lived for six years. In 1961, they settled in Atlanta, Georgia, building a home where they would live for the next 56 years.

Jean lived a vibrant, full life defined by love, hospitality, and joy. She and Verne shared a passion for travel, camping, fishing, and country living. Together, after Verne's retirement, they spent time in Virginia where they started a strawberry and Christmas tree farm. They created a home that was a gathering place for friends from around the world. Jean had a wonderful sense of fashion and delighted in hosting themed parties, making every guest feel welcome and celebrated.

She was arguably the best golfer in the family - challenged only by her husband - and was a proud Masters Patron since 1963. Jean was also a dedicated supporter of the Women's Health Initiative for over 30 years.

Above all, Jean expressed her love through care and kindness. She always made time for her friends and family, often sharing that love in the form of something homemade from her kitchen. Her warmth, strength, and generous spirit touched everyone who knew her.

Jean is survived by her four children, Marsha Hornick, Verne Bliss, Dennis Bliss, and Annita Korb; 7 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Her legacy of love, faith, adventure, and family will live on through each of them.

Jean Bliss will be remembered for her elegance, her competitive spirit, her hospitality, and the deep and steady love she gave so freely. She leaves behind a family rooted in her strength and a community made brighter by her presence.

A Celebration of Life is being scheduled for a later date.

The Bliss family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem, Virginia.