Argentine "Jean" Avitt

Argentine (Jean) Avitt, 96, of Knoxville, Iowa, passed away March 22, 2022. She was born to Marius Michel Bernard Giroud and Josephine Emma Jeanne Clerin on February 13, 1926, in Marseille, France. Jean's birth name was Argentine Noelie Philomene Giroud. Jean started school at the early age of four years so that the school had enough students to hold classes. She loved reading and helping her grandparents on the farm. Jean was married to Shalmer Lynn Avitt during WWII on July 7, 1945. They were blessed with three children: Josiann, Bernie, and Bob. Jean worked as a nursing assistant several years and retired after 17 years as a school bus driver from the Knoxville School District. She enjoyed baking and cooking with a collection of over one hundred cookbooks. Sewing, being a Den mother, and spoiling the grandchildren and great grandchildren were her favorite pastimes. She was a caregiver for many family members throughout her life, including her best friend, Louise Starr. She treasured time with friends,...