Jean Marie Maley

Jean Marie Maley, 96, passed away peacefully at Norton Women and Children Hospital, on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky.

Born on April 14, 1930, in Leitchfield, Kentucky, Jean was the beloved daughter of William and Hazel Sands. She lived a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and adventure, touching the hearts of everyone she met.

Jean was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and cherished friend to many. Blessed with the gift of gab, she could strike up a conversation with anyone and never met a stranger. Her outgoing personality, warm smile, and genuine interest in others made her a joy to be around.

She always took pride in her appearance, faithfully keeping her hair appointments every two weeks so she would always look her best. Jean loved to travel, especially taking trips out West and embarking on at least a dozen cruises throughout the years. Full of energy, she enjoyed dancing, particularly square dancing, and found great happiness in music. She loved listening to the timeless voices of Frank Sinatra, Hank Williams, Dean Martin, and many other classic favorites.

Jean also enjoyed playing cards, cooking for those she loved, and spending time boating at Rough River. Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was a dedicated member of Life Bridge Christian Church, where she faithfully served and built lasting friendships.

Nothing brought Jean more joy than spending time with her family. Whether gathered around the table, sharing stories, or watching her favorite game shows—Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, and Password—she treasured every moment with those she loved.

Jean's legacy is one of kindness, laughter, unwavering faith, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her memory will live on in the countless lives she touched.

Jean is preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Robert “Bob” Maley; daughter, Carolyn M. Maley; parents, William Robert Sands and Hazel Dennison Sands; brother, Sherman L. Sands; and Thomas Hodges, whom she found love with later in life.

Left to cherish her memory, Jean is survived by her daughter, Sharon Schneider (Greg); grandchildren, Jeffrey McKinley and John Burch (Michelle); great-grandchildren, Sylvia, Brianne (Blake), Dayton, Adilyn, and Charlotte; great-great-grandchildren, Cambria and Amelia; and a host of extended family and close friends.

A funeral service for Mrs. Jean Maley will be held at 1 PM on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Life Bridge Christian Church, 8001 Damascus Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40228. Visitation will be held from 11 AM to 1 PM at the church, prior to the funeral service. Private burial at Louisville Memorial Gardens West will take place on July 7, 2026.