It’s been said that Jean Gross has never met a stranger! Fascinated by people and their stories, Jean has been a historical interpreter and potter at Middleton Place Historic Landmark for the last 10 years and has newly embarked on a career in real estate. On top of all that, she’s also a recently “retired” military wife! Her husband retired from the Navy this past May. His career brought them to many beautiful places around the country AND the world. Jean feels that landing here in Summerville has been a blessing for herself and her family. The Lowcountry’s charm has certainly made them feel like they’re home.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I’ve been married to my crazy cajun hubby Chad for 25 years. We have 3 wonderful sons, Gabe (20), Nate (18), and Sam (15). However, all our family members don’t have two legs; we have 2 dogs, Marshall and Molly, and a menagerie of other critters that make our hobby farm a quirky and wonderful home.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I started my career in Education. Being an active-duty military spouse for the last 25 years, I stayed at home with my young boys, then reentered the workforce in the field of history. Being a historical interpreter at Middleton has provided me an opportunity to marry my background in History (I have a B.A. in History from Virginia Wesleyan College), education, agriculture and PEOPLE! The field of real estate has also fulfilled a need I have for meeting and serving others.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Eclectic Chef in downtown Summerville makes me feel like I treated my tummy to something special EVERY TIME I go there. I also frequent 5 Loaves Cafe with my girls when we need a special night out.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
11 years now! WOW!
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
My buddy Nancy Simpson is such a dynamic, eccentric soul! She keeps bees and goats, taught psychology at Trident Tech, and is a life-long learner with a lust for life and experience.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Italy. We need to visit our adopted Italian family with whom we lived for 3 years. I think of them everyday. We also have best friends who now currently live there…and the FOOD! Enough said.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Life is Beautiful, Seinfeld, The Middle, The Goldbergs
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Perspective is the key. I’m constantly needing to remind myself that a positive outlook will change the course of your day…and life.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
To travel in an RV around the country or a round-the world cruise.
Q: What is your go to band when you cant decide what to listen to?
Allison Krauss & Union Station
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Accent on Wine
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Roberto Benigni…in Italy at an outdoor cafe, and I’d let him order everything for us and tell me why.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Our beautiful downtown area with gorgeous churches nestled into the residential area. And that we have a farmer’s market every Sat.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In an RV in Montana.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I am a potter and love to play in the mud!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Yellowstone
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
Easter….My family’s traditions make it the most special holiday. Cribbage tournaments and Polish food….YUM.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Our hobby farm in Knightsville, filled with critters and surrounded by woods.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My husband Chad
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Confederate Jasmin, ocean and beach smells
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
RELAX, Food, Safety
