Jean Wiswell

Jean Marie Grady Wiswell passed away on October 5, 2025, at her home in Au Sable Forks.

Jean was well known in the community for her friendly spirit and radiant smile. She and her husband, David Wiswell, purchased the 20 Main Tavern in 2014 and spent the next 10 years reinvigorating the bar, making it a popular hangout, community center, and local musical haven. Jean was often behind the bar, welcoming friends new and old and enjoying a glass of merlot or hula-hooping outback. She also worked as a receptionist at Whiteface Mountain for 10 years.

Besides her impeccable hosting abilities, Jean had a remarkable gift for growing flowers and loved working in the greenhouse in her backyard. She was a mediocre golfer and extremely talented at crafting. And Jean was a great friend to every dog and cat that crossed her path. No animal lacked for food, shelter, and love if Jean had anything to do with it. She adopted several rescue animals. She also hosted the numerous JeanFest parties in the Acres to the thrill of her friends and chagrin of her neighbors.

Jean was born October 1, 1952, in Joliet, IL to Delbert and Rosalie (Martell) Grady. She grew up in Manhattan, IL, with six siblings. She was a longtime resident of Peotone, IL, where she raised her three sons, Craig (Kim), Ryan (Kelly), and Steve (Lisa). Jean was thrilled to be a grandmother to Lyndsey, Duke, Ebin, River, Tim, Aubrey, Averie, and Paulie.

After spending 16 years with Prudential Insurance Co. in Illinois and Florida, Jean boldly took a chance and moved to the Adirondacks with Dave in 2000. She quickly fell in love with the area, became active and involved, and made many, many friends and admirers along the way. She and Dave were married on July 7, 2001, atop Whiteface Mountain.

There will be a celebration of Jean's very full life at Heidrick-Zaumetzer Funeral Home at 4:00 pm on October 24 and at 20 Main immediately after.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to an organization near and dear to Jean's heart: the Elmore SPCA, Peru NY. The family would also like to thank High Peaks Hospice.