The community mourns the passing of Jewelldean McKnight Jerdon Bartel, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, who peacefully departed this life on May 8, 2026, at her home. Born on May 15, 1939, in Laurel County, Kentucky, Jewell, who was sometimes affectionately known as J.J., lived a life rich in dedication, service, and love.

Jewell's remarkable career spanned over three decades with the Houston County Georgia Board of Education, where she committed herself fully to the betterment of education and youth. Her steadfast faith guided much of her life's work, having joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in her teenage years. Throughout her devoted membership, Jewell embraced leadership roles with grace and passion, serving as President in the children’s Primary, Young Women’s, and Relief Society auxiliaries. She imparted wisdom and spiritual knowledge as a Seminary Teacher, nurturing the faith of young minds. Notably, from 2011 to 2013, Jewell dedicated thousands of hours in administrative and genealogical research during her full-time mission for the Family History Department in Salt Lake City, Utah, a testament to her tireless devotion to family history and community service.

Jewell found joy in simple yet profound pleasures—a tender walk through her neighborhood, the peaceful swing of a porch at sunset, the intellectual challenge of watching "Jeopardy!", and a night of square dancing, a passion that blossomed into deep love when her husband, Hal, courted her through a square-dancing club. Her days were enriched by gardening, indulging in novels, playing cards, listening to music, and dancing, illustrating a life well-lived and heart fully engaged.

Her favorite hymn, “I Stand All Amazed,” resonates deeply with the essence of her spirit—reflective, devoted, and marveling at the blessings of life. Jewell's legacy is loving and enduring, treasured by those who knew her.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Harold ‘Hal’ Bartel; her sister Betty McKnight Benge; brother Bruce McKnight; sister-in-law Kathie McKnight; her children Kevin Jerdon (Wendy), Phillip Jerdon, and Rhonda Jerdon; step-children Adam Bartel, Amy Bartel-Riggins, Eric Bartel, and Ryan Bartel; grandchildren Katie Mealey (Tom), Ian Hatt (Jennifer), Courtney Hatt, Daniel Jerdon, Spencer Jerdon, Lukas, Elijah, and Lily Jerdon; and great-grandchildren Thomas “Xander,” Benjamin, Jonathan Mealey, and Mason Hatt. Her family circle extends to numerous other loving relatives and friends who hold her memory close.

Jewell was preceded in death by her loyal husband, Russell Jerdon; their cherished son, John Jerdon and his wife, Christy Bates; and her dear brothers, Harold, John, and Tommy McKnight—souls who walked before her and whose memories she carried lovingly.

In keeping with Jewell’s wishes, all services will be private.

Though words fall short of encompassing the fullness of Jewell’s life and love, those who knew her will forever carry the warmth of her smile, the strength of her convictions, and the tenderness of her heart. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and a life devoted to serving others.

May we all find comfort in the countless memories she gave us and the profound impact she made in our lives. Jewell’s spirit stands amazed, still radiant and enduring in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests donations be given in memory of Jewell McKnight Jerdon Bartel to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or the American Cancer Society. You can make donations to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints online, in person, or via mail. The most common method is online churchofjesuschrist.org using a church account, while you can also submit checks directly to church headquarters or give them to a local bishopric member. You can make donations to the American Cancer Society online at donate.cancer.org.

In Their Honor Funeral and Cremation Providers, is privileged to assist the family with arrangements.