Jessie Wilcox Gilbert Chew, a lifelong resident of Swarthmore, passed away on December 26, 2023. She was 96 years old. Jessie was born January 18, 1927, to Percy and Virginia Gilbert. In school, she participated in hockey, basketball, and lacrosse, and was known for her smile and for being a great friend to many. After graduating from Swarthmore High School in 1944, Jessie attended Chatham College. She also worked briefly at Ladies' Home Journal in Philadelphia. On April 14, 1951, she married the love of her life, Thomas Graham Chew. Jessie and Tom built their family home on Drew Avenue in Swarthmore in 1958; they raised their two children in the cul-de-sac neighborhood and remained there when their children left home to start their own families.

Jessie developed a passion for gardening at a young age. Her love for gardening led to her involvement with the Scott Arboretum, a beautiful 425-acre public garden that encompasses Swarthmore College. As a lifelong member of the Swarthmore Presbyterian Church, Jessie served on the Session, or "Ruling Elders". She was the co-founder of the Marthas (volunteers who help with memorial services), and the Holy Order of Environmentalists/H.O.E. (volunteers committed to garden maintenance). She was instrumental in the founding and care of the Memorial Garden at the church as well. Jessie was also a member of the P.E.O Sisterhood, a women's organization dedicated to providing educational opportunities for female students worldwide.

In addition to gardening, Jessie loved swimming; she spent many summers completing the 1,000 Lap Club at Swarthmore Swim Club. She loved dogs, reading, and traveling to see the ocean. She was always rooting for the Eagles and the Phillies to win. She will be dearly missed by the loved ones she leaves behind.

Jessie was preceded in death by her parents, Percy and Virginia Gilbert, her sister, Harriet Gilbert Knox, and her beloved husband of 62 years, Thomas Chew. Jessie is survived by her children, Ginny Englefield and Geoff Chew, her grandchildren, Ali (Sarah) Englefield, Ashley (Neil) DeWitt, and Jamie Chew, as well as her great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephew.

A private family service will be held at a later date, as well as a Celebration of Life in the spring, when the flowers in her beloved Memorial Garden will be in full bloom. Memorial gifts may be made to the Swarthmore Presbyterian Church, 727 Harvard Avenue, Swarthmore, PA, 19081.

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Arrangements: Rigby Harting & Hagan Funeral Home
15 E. Fourth St. Media, PA 19063
www.haganfuneralhome.com