Jean A. Streiff

Jean Ann Streiff, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and dedicated educator, passed away, leaving a legacy of love, wisdom, and profound impact on all who knew her. She is survived by her devoted husband, Charles Streiff; her loving son, Matthew Streiff (Jennifer); her treasured grandchildren, Ben and Anna; her dear sister, Elaine (John); her beloved niece, Elissa; and numerous cousins.

Born and raised in Greensburg, PA, Jean Ann graduated from St. Xavier High School and earned her degree from Duquesne University. Her passion for language and communication led her to pursue a Master's in Rhetoric from the University of Pittsburgh. With this strong academic foundation, Jean Ann embarked on a remarkable teaching career that spanned 44 years, touching countless lives.

From 1970 to 1989, she inspired young women’s minds at Sacred Heart High School before joining Oakland Catholic High School, where she dedicated the final 25 years of her career. At Oakland Catholic, Jean Ann served as the English Department's Chair, guiding students and colleagues with her intelligence, high standards, and unwavering commitment to education. She retired in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and dedication.

Beyond the classroom, Jean Ann actively participated in various speech and communications associations, including the National Communications Association, Eastern Communications Association, and the Pennsylvania Communication Association, where her contributions to the field were highly regarded. Her passion for literature and writing was evident in every lesson she taught, and her ability to instill a love of learning in her students was unparalleled.

Her colleagues admired her leadership and dedication, remembering her as a guiding force supporting professional and personal development. Her profound respect from students and peers earned her numerous accolades, including the Pennsylvania Communication Association’s Carroll Arnold Distinguished Service Award; and National Communications Association’s Secondary Teacher of the Year Award.

Jean Ann’s life included a love of family, friends, traveling, cooking, and entertaining. Family and friends were treated to culinary trips through theme dinners, complimenting her travels with Charles to Turkey, Greece, and Europe. Seeing her son, grandson, and granddaughter compete at the high school and collegiate levels was one of her exquisite joys.

Her family and friends will forever cherish Jean Ann’s memory and the countless students whose lives she touched. The Catholic education community and all who knew Jean Ann mourn the loss of a remarkable friend, educator, and mentor. Her contributions to education and caring spirit will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire and resonate within the hearts of those she touched.

As we honor her legacy, we pray: “Eternal rest grant unto Jean Ann, O Lord, and let the perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”

Rest in peace, Jean Ann Streiff. Your dedication to teaching and the love you shared with your family and students will never be forgotten.

The family would like to thank the Providence Point Healthcare staff for caring for Jean Ann.

All are welcome Monday, August 12, 2024, from 5-8 PM at WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE, 1650 Greentree Rd., Scott Twp., 15220 (412-563-2800). Funeral Service 12:30 PM on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Providence Point Chapel, 500 Providence Point Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15243. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for contributions to Oakland Catholic's Jean Ann Streiff Scholarship Fund, 144 N Craig St, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412—682-6633), www.oaklandcatholic.org.

www.slaterfuneral.com