A bright and shining light went out when Dorcella Mary Wells Biehn transitioned from this life into eternity. Dorcella passed away peacefully in her sleep on her 99th birthday at Baptist Village Care Center in Erlanger, Kentucky.
She was born at home in Morgan, Kentucky, December 9, 1921, to Abner and Cecil Hanson Wells, their second daughter. Dorcella was a direct descendent of John Hanson who was president of the Continental Congress when the colonies won their freedom in the Revolutionary War.
Dorcella was a proud graduate of Morgan High School. She then followed in her mother’s shoes by graduating from Eastern Kentucky University and becoming a teacher. She taught grade school in various local communities for over 32 years. Dorcella had a lifelong love for learning which she imparted to her pupils. She loved her students and spent countless efforts helping and encouraging them.
Her marriage to John E Biehn, a well-respected young man engaged in the business of farming, was delayed due to his service in the army during World War II. They were married in 1947 for almost 55 years. Jack passed away in 2002.
Their union produced two daughters, Patricia and Mary. Both followed their mother and grandmother to graduate from Eastern Kentucky University. The daughters survive and reside in Northern Kentucky. They will miss their mother greatly.
In addition to her teaching duties Dorcella and Jack farmed several acres, raising tobacco, corn and various crops. They also had a livestock operation raising Aberdeen Angus cattle, Shropshire sheep, and Duroc and Hampshire hogs.
Dorcella spent her summers tending a large garden and canning and freezing the surplus for the winters ahead.
She was a very gentle soul who loved animals. She was known for feeding all the cats that came around and adopting the strays. She loved living in the country on the family farm.
Dorcella was a well loved and revered member of the community her entire life. Even after many years of retirement, it was guaranteed that a trip to almost any place in town would include one or more happy encounters that began, “Hi, Mrs. Biehn, you probably don’t remember me, but I was in your class”.
Remarkably, Dorcella managed the farming operation after her husband’s death until she was over 90 years old. She so appreciated so many kind neighbors stopping by to bring treats and visit.
She loved, mentored and supported her family with counsel and kindness. Dorcella had a keen mind and was always known for her generosity and sweetness to all.
Dorcella was a member of the Blanket Creek Baptist Church. Her parents, sisters and her husband preceded her in death.
She bequeathed her body to science. Peoples Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Due to the Covid pandemic, there will be no public services.
There is a John E. and Dorcella Wells Biehn scholarship fund for local students at Pendleton County High School if you wish to donate. You may also wish to honor her memory by helping a child or adopting a homeless pet.
