Ina Jean Schultz
March 7, 1931 - September 25, 2026
OBITUARY
Ina Jean “Jean” Schultz passed away on September 25, 2026, at age 95. She will be remembered for her love of family, strong faith, years of service, and lively personality. Jean was born in Iowa in 1931 to John and Lela Defenbough. She moved to Lodi, California, and graduated from Lodi High School in 1948. She began working at age 13 and held several jobs throughout her life. She later worked for the California Department of Motor Vehicles, where she retired. Many people in the Lodi area may even remember Jean as the person who passed, or perhaps failed, them on their driving test.
Jean met James “Jim” Schultz through Methodist Youth Fellowship when they were in high school. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, and service. They shared 62 years of marriage before Jim passed away in 2014. Jean found comfort in her faith and in the hope that they would be together again.
Jean and Jim raised four children: Mark, Kathy Robinson, Tim, and David. Jean was proud of her family and especially proud of her children’s accomplishments.
Faith and helping others were central to Jean’s life. She joined the Methodist Church in 1946 and remained a devoted member. At First United Methodist Church of Lodi, she and Jim helped feed people in need through Sacramento Street Ministries and took part in home-building and repair projects in California, Louisiana, Mexico, and elsewhere. Jean's commitment to serving others extended well beyond church. She also volunteered for 30 years with the Women’s Club and the LOEL Center, where she made many lasting friendships.
She was a proud grandmother of seven and great-grandmother of six. Jean loved cheering for her family at sporting events and was never shy about sharing her opinions with the officials. She also enjoyed playing Skip-Bo, Rummikub, and Uno with her family—and loved winning. She was a loyal fan of the San Francisco 49ers and Giants.
Jean was direct, feisty, and always willing to speak her mind. She loved her family deeply and brought warmth and personality wherever she went. She enjoyed baking, especially rhubarb desserts, and caring for her rose garden.
Jean is survived by her children Kathy (Frank) Robinson, Tim (Kim), and David (Suzy); her daughter-in-law Marie; her seven grandchildren, Scott Schultz, Justin (Kaila) Pyle, Ashley (Geoff) Siebel, Jesse Robinson, Casee (Josh) Killing, Rosie Schultz, and Carli Schultz; her six great-grandchildren; her brother, Rex Defenbough; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; her son, Mark; her parents, John and Lela; and her siblings, Marjorie and Richard.
Jean lived a full life and will be deeply missed. In her memory, her family invites everyone to remember one of her simple habits: make your bed every day.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 9th, 11:30am, at the First United Methodist Church of Lodi, 200 West Oak Street. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Grace & Mercy Charitable Foundation, 425 Sacramento St, Lodi, CA 95240
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Schultz family.
Please leave your condolences below.