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Jenne Twiford Obituary
January 28, 1943 - December 21, 2024
Jenne Lee Lancaster Twiford, 81, of Douglas, Wyoming, leaves a legacy of children's lives made brighter by her lifelong commitment to the education and welfare of youth she nurtured in her lifetime.
She was born on January 28, 1943, to Jack and Betty Lancaster and grew up on the family ranch in Glendo, Wyoming. Jenne Lee graduated from Glendo High School as salutatorian in 1961 before going on to receive her B.A. in education in 1965 from the University of Wyoming (where she was a member of Kappa Delta), her Master of Education from the University of South Dakota in 1985, and her Education Specialist degree from the University of Wyoming in 1997. She began her career teaching English at Laramie High School. As her family moved, she educated students in Douglas, Abilene, Denver, Omaha, the Philippines, Rapid City, and again in Douglas, where she taught middle school. In 1984, she assumed the role of vice principal then principal at Douglas Middle School and for the eight rural schools in Converse County. In 2004, she became the special education director for all Douglas schools. She retired in 2007.
Jenne Lee was dignified and understated, which was not to be confused with meek, as she would readily demonstrate in any of a number of card games she regularly managed to dominate. While more of a private figure than socialite, she nonetheless was a regular host of groups ranging from the State Fair Rodeo Queens to the PEO Sisterhood to the Douglas Education Association. Her immaculate home was her refuge, but she travelled with confidence and established enduring school exchange programs for Douglas students with schools in Tennessee and Maryland, creating what was for most participants a first taste of some of the great diversity outside the Cowboy State. She lived in grace with the understanding that possessions are all passing, but that through the love of family and friends she leaves the world better for her having lived.
Jenne Lee was preceded in death by her grandson, Quinton Sanford, and is survived by her husband of 61 years, Jim Twiford, her brother, John Lancaster, her three children: Jill Sanford (Bill Steckler), Jacque Russell (Mark Russell), and J.R. Twiford (Theresa Sullivan Twiford); seven grandchildren: Mitchell Sanford, Jenne Lee Sanford, Michael Twiford, Jack Twiford, Julia Twiford, Kendall (Russell) Pinelli, and Ryan Russell; and a great granddaughter, Peyton Pinelli. They will never forget the love she brought to their lives.
The family will hold a celebration of her life on June 7th in Douglas. In lieu of gifts, donations to the Alzheimer's Association in her name are appreciated.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jenne Twiford
Mike Eathorne & Family
June 7, 2025
Thoughts and prayers for Mr. Twiford, Jill, Jacque, JR and the rest of the Twiford clan during this very difficult time. She was a great lady and she was always kind and gracious to me. Too many good memories to mention here. She made a positive and meaningful impact within the Douglas Education Community. Her legacy lives on!
Tom & Mary Millwee
February 8, 2025
Mary & I extend our deepest sympathies & condolences to the families of Jenne. We have had the privilege of being friends with Jim & Jenne since 1975. They were the epitome of a caring, compassionate family. Always an extremely positive approach to life coupled with humor & humility. When we traveled from Texas to South Dakota, we always made our stop in Douglas to visit with Jim & Jenne. We always looked forward to that stop so we could catch up with one another & enjoy the pleasure of their company. God Bless you, Jenne, and know that we are all better for having you in our lives.
Ronald Ron Gould
January 27, 2025
School mate 3rd grade through High school.
Nanette Meredith
January 25, 2025
Jenne was the school family of Douglas, so many were touched and felt her sincerity In all she did. A big loss to the community that knew her sweet presence.
Tonya Jorgenson Mirts
January 25, 2025
Mrs Twiford was a compassionate educator who championed so many children. I loved having her as a teacher. One of the very best. Condolences to the family. Prayers for peace and comfort.
Tonya Jorgenson Mirts
Angie Stinson
January 25, 2025
Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs to the family. Jenne and I were close friends. We worked together at DMS for many years. Rest in peace Jenne
Sharon Power
January 24, 2025
What a beautiful obituary for a lovely person. Sending love to Jill and the entire family. Your mother and grandmother´s memory will live on in all of you. I know she is dearly missed. Brent and I send our deepest condolences.
TJCJ
January 23, 2025
Prayers for the family!
Tharen & Candy Jorgenson
Doris Reese Carpenter Spear
January 23, 2025
I'm just hearing of Jennes passing. I'm so sorry for your loss. I can remember her from very early in my life. In Glendo...mostly from DMS. She was an amazing principal during the time I worked there and my children went to school there. She had the greatest smile and when she'd giggle, it was infectious! Love and Prayers to you, Jim, and your whole family. Jenne is fondly remembered.
Sincere condolences,
Doris M.Reese Carpenter Spear
Gary Dahmke
January 23, 2025
There are too many great memories to mention here!
Bonnie Lane
January 23, 2025
This captures Jenne beautifully! I sent this to other friends. Thank you for informing us.
Bonnie & Douglas friends
Tye Roy & Family
January 23, 2025
Sending love and hugs to the entire family. Jenne always treated me like one of her own (even when in trouble) and I felt truly blessed by her kindness. Her contributions to the education system and community of Douglas should never be forgotten! God Bless you all during this difficult time.
Frank Sanford
January 23, 2025
Jenne Lee Twiford was always dignified, thoughtful, and respectful. She lived in grace. She was always wonderful to me.
Jeff Barnett
January 23, 2025
I am very sorry to hear this. She was a great lady. She was my principal at the Douglas MS for many years and she was the very best boss to work for. Her legacy will live forever. Prayers to her family. Jeff Barnett
Sue Sullivan
January 23, 2025
Jennie was a lovely lady that will be missed by so many. Dan& Sue Sullivan
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