Jacalyn Rita Hess (née Baxter) known affectionately as Jackie to her friends and family, has taken her final curtain call in the grand stage of life. Born on Long Island, New York to Jack and Rita Baxter, Jackie grew up among her five brothers and sisters who she loved dearly: Walter, Michael, Terry, Patricia and Maureen. Jackie also loved her Aunt Betty, enough to attend every one of her tap dancing recitals.

Jackie is survived by her daughters, Meredith Fetkovich, Katharine Pergola and Megan Hess, and her son, Brian McDonnell. Those who knew Jackie knew that her ultimate pride was her grandchildren: Jack, Caroline, Cameron, Margaret, Abigail, Nathaniel, Benjamin, Henry and Callum.

Aside from the genes that she passed down to her children and grandchildren, Jackie most importantly passed down her weird and often ill-timed sense of humor; the inability to pass by an animal in need without taking it home, consequences be damned; an unexplainable and sometimes unrewarding stubbornness; the belief that all road trips are made better with a Motown soundtrack; and an unbridled love for family.

A social worker by trade, Jackie was passionate about helping others in need, often putting their problems above her own. Many people, children and adults, can credit Jackie for helping them navigate various and often tumultuous stages of life.

Jackie spent the later years of her life in Chicago with who is believed to be her (current) favorite children, Avery and Mickey the dogs, and close to her son. Jackie traveled often, her favorite places being Montana and Colorado where she could be close to nature. Despite all the places she went, her favorite destination will always be Letchworth State Park in upstate New York, where she often traveled with her daughters in their younger years. While geographically far away from the rest of her family on the east coast, her presence was always felt and will continue to be after her passing.

After suffering from a long-term illness, Jackie passed away in the only way she saw fit: on her own terms and shockingly. Jackie's family and friends will forever remember her for who she was at her core: a woman who loved and cared deeply. Her legacy will live on and be passed down for generations. We always have and always will love you, Jackie.