Jacki Mary Obituary, Death – In the heart of Northwest Indiana, Jackie, a beloved member of the community, dedicated her life to education, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless students. Born and raised in the Glen Park section of Gary, she later called Merrillville home and became an integral part of the community. With a passion for teaching and a commitment to her family, Jackie’s impact reached far beyond the classroom. Jackie’s journey began in the tight-knit community of Glen Park in Gary. However, it was in Merrillville that she spent her formative years and graduated from Merrillville High School in the Class of 1973. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to St. Joseph College in Rensselaer, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Education. Continuing her academic journey, she later obtained her Master’s in Education from the prestigious Purdue University.
Jackie’s professional journey in education spanned over three decades, from 1977 to 2013. During this time, she imparted knowledge and wisdom to students at various schools, including Eisenhower, Lake Street, Solon Robinson, and St. Mary Elementary School. Her dedication to education extended beyond the classroom as she took on the role of school principal at St. Edward Catholic School in Lowell, IN. Jackie’s influence on the academic and personal growth of her students was profound and enduring. Beyond her professional life, Jackie found joy in quilting, a craft that allowed her creativity to flourish. The artistry and care she poured into her quilts were reflective of her nurturing and patient nature. Equally, Jackie cherished spending time with her grandchildren, creating lasting memories that would endure for generations.
As the community mourns the loss of this dedicated educator and caring individual, friends and well-wishers are invited to pay their respects on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at the Geisen Funeral, Cremation & Reception Centre in Crown Point, IN, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A heartfelt prayer service will take place the following morning, Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at 9:15 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church in Merrillville at 10:00 AM. The final resting place for Jackie will be at Calumet Park Cemetery in Merrillville, IN. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jackie’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association of Northwest Indiana, a cause close to her heart Jackie’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched as an educator, the warmth she brought to her family, and the memories she created within her community. As we bid farewell, let us remember her with gratitude for a life well-lived and a heart
