Jean Steadman Formento

Jean Steadman Formento, age 85, passed away on October 21, 2026, in Asheville, North Carolina. She was born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 1, 1941, to Jean and Bernard Steadman, both lifelong Chicago residents.

Jean graduated from the Academy of Our Lady – Longwood and went on to earn her first bachelor’s degree from Mundelein College (now part of Loyola University Chicago) in 1969. She devoted several years to shaping young minds as an elementary school teacher at St. Bernadette Academy before embarking on a new adventure as a flight attendant for United Airlines. Never one to stop learning, Jean returned to school and earned a second bachelor’s degree, this time in Philosophy, from Northwestern University in 1976. Her love of learning continued throughout her life, including several years of classes at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of North Carolina Asheville.

In 1977, Jean met and married Robert Formento. Together, they relocated to Manhattan Beach, California, where they built a beautiful life and raised a family. They shared 49 years and five months of deep devotion, companionship, and love. Together, they raised three children: John Paul (and his spouse, Kari), Anthony, and Vanessa. Jean was also the proud grandmother of Luca.

From an early age, Jean had a deep passion for dancing. She began studying ballet as a child, developing a grace and appreciation for dance that remained with her throughout her life. She continued taking classes and regularly attending professional performances. Her love of music and movement spanned generations, from dancing to the rock and roll of the 1950s and ’60s to continuing her adult ballet classes in both Manhattan Beach and Asheville. Later in life, she discovered Harvest House, North Carolina’s oldest community center dedicated for serving older adults. It quickly became one of her favorite places to meet new friends and enjoy the local dance scene. There, this lifelong ballet dancer joyfully embraced new challenges, learning to line dance, tap dance, and even clog.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Beverly; and her brothers, Bernard (Bud) and Donald. She is survived by her loving husband, Robert; her three children and grandson; a brother, David; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Friends and family will remember Jean for her sharp wit, elegance, infectious laughter, and fiercely independent spirit. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 5, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the family home in Asheville.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jean’s memory to: The Harvest House Community Center, 205 Kenilworth Road, Asheville, NC 28803.

Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue is assisting the family.