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Jinx Lacey Obituary
Often, she'd pull out a big sheet of butcher paper and encourage kids to put their feelings in writing, McNeil counselor Joe Gregg recalled.
On Friday , McNeil students clustered around sheets of butcher paper in the school cafeteria and wrote their remembrances of Lacey.
The 69-year-old woman had been taken off life support earlier in the day after being found unconscious in her home Thursday. Her family said that she was injured in a fall at the McNeil High School parking lot Wednesday evening. She died Saturday morning.
"She's the one that got us through situations like this," Gregg said. "She always seemed to know what to do."
Lacey worked in counseling for 36 years — 17 of them at McNeil High.
"The news of Ms. Lacey is devastating to our community, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family," Round Rock school district spokeswoman JoyLynn Occhiuzzi wrote in a statement.
"Ms. Lacey always had a smile on her face, and she was truly a child advocate. We will miss her deeply."
Longtime friend Su Mohr said McNeil students are planning to celebrate Lacey's 70th birthday, on March 6, the way they celebrated her 60th: by filling every inch of her office with balloons. Inside each balloon will be a handwritten note from a student or staff member, Mohr said.
Margaret Lacey, nicknamed Jinx as a child, was born in West Texas but moved to Austin as a child. She graduated from McCallum High School.
"She thought it was real funny that she was a crisis support counselor with the name of Jinx," Gregg said.
A fun-loving, confident woman who once expressed her displeasure with mandatory early morning meetings by showing up to work in her pajamas and curlers, Lacey touched the lives of thousands of McNeil students over the years, said Sandra Dorin, the school's lead counselor.
"She's like the cornerstone of the school," Dorin said. "She always said, 'I am the oldest faculty member on staff with the youngest heart.' "
Lacey is survived by three children.
Funeral arrangements have not been announced.
McNeil High plans to hold a celebration of Lacey's life at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the district's Performing Arts Center. That event is open to the public.
Additional material from staff writer Sarah Coppola.
[email protected]; 445-3620
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Memories and Condolences
for Jinx Lacey
Rosinella Dudich
May 16, 2014
I remember being a student at McNeil from 98-02. She was a wonderful woman who put so much pride and joy into helping us.
G. Amaya
September 10, 2010
To help someone grow spiritually and mentally is to be a hero. You will always be my hero. <3
January 26, 2010
i loved her she helped me with my mom
Jessica (Sweeten) Hood
November 17, 2009
Jinx was our next door neighbor on Leona Dr in College Station growing up. She was such a bright light and a very positive person. It is great to see how much she impacted others, and I hope her children find some comfort in that. Our prayers are with her family now.
Joan Powell
November 16, 2009
Jinx had a huge, positive impact on me while I was a student at Texas A&M and working at Allen Academy in Bryan, TX in the 70s. I last saw her about 15 years ago at the Austin Club. She was joyous, thoughtful and very, very smart. How blessed her family and students all were.
Mark Lucas
November 11, 2009
Being out of state I just heard about Jinx's untimely death. She was a teacher (psychology and typing) and counselor at Allen Academy in Bryan back in the 70's. She never gave up on me when it came to school and I have always appreciated that. I was certainly no scholar in high school but made it through Texas A&M to graduate. Wish I could have told her thanks for believing in me.
Beverly Kieltyka
June 2, 2009
Jinx was one of the first people in my life that liked me just as I was. I think she probably was that for a lot of us. That says quite a bit, considering we were teenagers. I have gone back and visited her many times over the years, and she was always welcoming, and just full of smiles and laughter. Even as an adult, I was still one of her kids and she still listened to whatever I had going on. Such a wonderful woman. Truly a great loss for the world and the students who come after her. The kind of impact she made on kids, never dies, it will be carried on to others. I know her caring and acceptance of me has helped me and made my life better in many ways. Thank you Jinx!
-Beverly Heck-Kieltyka-
Glenda Baker
March 6, 2009
Kim, Susan, & Laura,
You cannot know how sorry I am that your mom is no longer with us. I have many fun and funny memories of her as she touched my life in various ways. Most memorable was her marriage to my brother Perry in the hospital. All things done with flare and humor if at all possible. Funny how she had been on my mind lately and I had lost her address and could not remember her given name. Kim & Susan I remember you as little girls and the times I came to visit were special. Laura, though I never met you I know you are all 3 just as special as your mom. I will miss her laughter and special way of looking at even the greatest of problems. May all your memories be good ones and if not may you someday laugh about them. She was a great gal that touched so many lives even some she never met in person, but if you met her you did not forget her. God bless you every one and thanks for sharing your mom with so many others. She will always be special to me. Glenda M. Baker
Chris Venegas (class of 96)
March 5, 2009
Mrs. Lacey, you were an amazing woman who could light up any room. You're laughter was infectious. You're words of wisdom though random at times always seemed to have a point and come full circle. I'm not sure you will ever know how many lives you've touched and helped to change for the better. I'm so glad fate intervened and I was given the opportunity to see you one last time. You will be greatly missed. Love ya Jinxy baby!
Miriam Troutman
March 3, 2009
Ms. Lacey was one of the most amazing women in the world. She will always be remembered and i will always think of here when i say piffle or piffle dust.
Terry Sheneman
February 28, 2009
Laura - Jinx and I spent an incredible 15 years together. Sadly, when I left McNeil, we were not on the best of terms. But, do know this: She was my best friend, my mentor, and at times, the BEST wife (sort of...) any person could ever dream of having. We took many road trips together and the secrets that she told are safe with me! Actually, I forgot them all... She did tend to talk a lot, ya know! I have lost a key part of my soul with her passing. Peace be with you.
Julie Greulich
February 21, 2009
I was deeply saddened to hear that one of the greatest, most caring person I ever knew was no longer with us. Jinx was an amazing women who saved my life. If it had not been for her I would not be here today. My heart goes out to her family. I will never forget her spirit and the gift she gave me- life.
Jane Wrinkle
February 21, 2009
Laura, Kim and Susan,
You're mother was an amazing friend to me and an inspiration to my career. I learned so much from her during our dear friendship which I will carry with me for every! Thanks for sharing her with me.
Jane Wrinkle
Kellie Goff
February 21, 2009
What a beautiful celebration this afternoon. I'm sure Jinx loved every minute of it!
Detective Robert L. Newell
February 21, 2009
I was a School Resource Officer at McNeil High School for numerous years and knew Jinx for a long time. Jinx helped me out when I was going through my cancer treatments and gave me a lot of support dealing with my cancer. I am sorry for your families loss and we all know she is up in heaven looking down on us right now.
Chastity Jobe
February 20, 2009
Laura,
I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts during this difficult time. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask.
Paula Haschke
February 20, 2009
Deepest sympathy on the loss of your wonderful mother. She was a kind, compassionate, dear lady. May it comfort you to know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of many at this time.
Edith Betts
February 20, 2009
Kim, Susan, Laura - I am terribly saddened to learn of your mother's death and your great loss. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you.
Elaine Smith
February 19, 2009
Jinx had a choice spot in my heart. She was my McNeil confidante and special friend. Jinx was an encourager and a motivator, and her life taught a beautiful lesson. She left an indelible mark on my life and on the lives of many others, as evidenced by all the lovely expressions.
As she once so aptly said, we were sisters, for we both have the same Heavenly Father. I will miss this dear sister.
Her Sister-in-Christ,
Laine
Elaine Smith
February 19, 2009
Jinx had a choice spot in my heart. She was my McNeil confidante and special friend. Jinx was an encourager and a motivator, and her life taught a beautiful lesson. She left an indelible mark on my life and on the lives of many others, as evidenced by all the lovely expressions.
As she once so aptly said, we were sisters, for we both have the same Heavenly Father. I will miss this dear sister.
Her Sister-in-Christ,
Laine
Mark Stein
February 19, 2009
Kim, Gary & Family: Lenora and my thoughts are with you in this sad time. Losing a parent is a hard thing to go through. Always cherish the good times.
Mae Ostrominski
February 18, 2009
Hi, first and foremost may God be with you and your family during this difficult time. I love Jinx so much, she definitely made an incredible impact on my life. In high school I was in BITS and HOPE and made countless visits to her office throughout the day and I will never forget her perky and smiling face, especially her colorful Friday shoes! She was definitely an inspiration to me to see life in a positive light no matter what, and to always help others. One of my favorite quotes is "It's not the years in your life that matter, but the life in your years" and I can't think of anyone better or more full of life to fit that quote than Jinx. I believe she also wrote me a letter of reccomendation for A&M, which I am now attending as a sophomore. I know that in life circumstances come that are tough but I don't think God would bring you too them, unless he is going to get you through them and I am praying that each day will be easier for yall. Please know that you all are in my prayers.
Love, Mae Ostrominski
McNeil class of '07
Jinx's Youngest Daughter- Laura Wessels
February 18, 2009
Words can not even begin to express the grief our family is experiencing with the loss of our Mom/Granj. As many of your have beautifully acknowledged, she was an AMAZING woman, friend, and leader. She was the heartbeat of our family and is missed beyond all comprehension. On behalf of her entire family we would like to extend our gratitude for the memoires shared, the prayers prayed, and the support given. We are so very proud of her, not only for all that she was to her family, but also for all of the differences she made in the lives of so many. God Bless-
Tia Botello
February 18, 2009
Laura, may God be with you and your family. Your mother was such a wonderful person and she created the person that you are today. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Know that she is resting peacefully with the Lord and always watching over you.
Ann Kinch Walden
February 18, 2009
This cute thing was a cheerleader (2 yrs), in the Beauty Revue (3 yrs), assorted theater productions (3 yrs), and, of course, Future Teachers (3 yrs) plus numerous other activities from 1953 - 1957 at McCallum High School in Austin.
Ann Kinch Walden
February 18, 2009
Oh my gosh, are the angels singing louder today with Margaret Karlene (Jinx) in the lead?! We were high school classmates ('57), friends, and the last ones up at slumber parties. Her strong faith , "love thy neighbor as thy self", was as evident as her fabulous sense of humor. I loved her and miss her but I understand why God wants her in His realm. God Bless her familyand friends.
Andrew Zeugin
February 17, 2009
I was once Jinx's office aid, she was by far the most fun and zany woman I've ever met, and she will be remembered so long as I live. from her own special curse-word, "piffle", to her nick-name for me, "lounge-lizard". Jinx, you will always be remembered.
Melanie Sargent
February 16, 2009
I only met Jinx on a couple of occasions working with children from the High School, but her passion she expressed has and will remain with me. There is a quote that is dear to my heart and I feel that it fits her perfectly. “People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.” -- Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. She was always radiant with warmth and love. She will be truely missed by all.
Art Chester
February 16, 2009
What a shock and a terrible loss to us all. I remember Jinx as a wonderful live wire when we were in high school together. It's both sad and consoling to read the many entries from people she has touched and helped. Her spirit will always be in our hearts. (McCallum High School, class of '57)
Eric & Luci Solano
February 15, 2009
Words cannot even begin to express our sorrow to you and your family. Laura may the love of those around you help you through the days ahead. Lean on your friends for strength, and always remember how much you are cared about. God Bless you and your family
Carol Roark
February 15, 2009
I met Jinx in 1970 when I was an unhappy teenager who moved to Texas just before my senior year in high school. She was Jinx Baker then, and lived near the house we were renting. Jinx was a good friend to me -- even though she was struggling herself. She always had a great take on life. I remember her talking about budget problems in her household. She would "borrow" rolls of toilet paper from public restrooms when she didn't have enough money to purchase groceries. Then, when she got paid, she would replace the rolls. She said that she wondered what people thought when they found a roll of soft, high-quality toilet paper in the stall instead of the usual stiff stuff. She made me smile and lifted my spirits -- something I gather she has done for others throughout her life. My parents showed me the obituary -- it makes me sad that I haven't kept in touch with Jinx over the past 39 years.
Abbey Sinclair
February 14, 2009
Jinx Lacey was literally my second grandma because her and my grandparents Donna and Pat Abbott were extremely close. I go to McNeil High School and it was so nice having her there to just walk in and say Hi. Losing her hurt me a lot and I miss her so much. She brought so much life and fun into our family. She really inspired me and taught me really good lessons. I miss her deeply and she will always be in my heart; nobody can or will replace her. I'm praying for ya'll and I want ya'll to know how special she was to me. I loved her so much and miss her a lot. I'm pretty sure she is having a big party and a lot of fun with God up in heaven!
With love,
Abbey Sinclair
Donna Pelly
February 13, 2009
Laura,
I am so very sorry to hear about your mom. I wish so badly we could have all stayed closer. Everytime I was around your mom especially when she was with all of you girls she was so happy and always smiling. My God, I don't think I've ever known anyone who smiled "all the time" like she did. Even Deanna was sad and remembered the times that she tried to talk to Deanna about Life and how to just be positive. You are blessed to have such a wonderful mother with beautiful memories. Unfortunately, I too just recently lost my mother and have a little understanding of your pain. But such a sudden lost has no comparison. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Kelly (Surles) Lyttle
February 13, 2009
She was a special woman and touched every student in some way. I'm sure she's now in heaven offering support and love to our dear friends before her.
Cora Chilobe
February 12, 2009
Laura, it's so hard to lose someone you love, and though words can't take away the sadness you feel. I want to tell you that I care very deeply about you and all that your're going through and I hope it helps to remember that your loved one is in God's care. Please know that you're in my thoughts and prayers.
Zelibanos Sean
February 12, 2009
I will forever remember the little things you did for me and all the fun time i had being your office aide
R.I.P. Much Love
Desjuan Mays
February 12, 2009
we love you jinxs and we thank you for everything you have done in our lives i will never forget you and you will alweays be in my heart.
February 12, 2009
Our very deepest sympathy----
Janie Yeaton Williams----McCallum '57
Yovene Yeaton Vaughan---McCallum '55
Bob Trotter
February 12, 2009
Jinx was a star. Heaven just got much brighter. What a talented, beautiful lady! My fondest memories of her are in our Royal Court theatrical productions at McCallum High School and soprano in the First Baptist Church Youth Choir.
Am so grateful that God led her into education, following the magnificient examples of her dear mother and father. I wish that she could have been my counselor.
But I was a classmate in some of the most fun times anyone could ever experience. Jinx just lit up a room.
"Of Thee I Sing" sensational Jinx. Your song will live in our hearts forever.
McCallum High School (Austin)
Class of '58
Jennifer Mayberry
February 12, 2009
Jinx had an amazing, contagious spirit that made me want to be a better, stronger woman. She definitely passed that on to her daughters.
I am so sorry for your loss and heartache. I love you, Laura and am here if you need anything, day or night.
Claire & Mario Hernandez
February 12, 2009
Laura,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, but always remember that God is in control, and in our times of weakness He is shown strong. You and your family will be in our prayers for sure.
Lora and Erica DeBord
February 12, 2009
Jinx Lacey is an angel that helped my daughter through her lowest time in life. I know she is with our Merciful Lord in heaven right now.
I am so thankful that we were touched by her grace.
She is forever in our hearts.
Angela Wills-Smith
February 12, 2009
Laura, you and your family are in our hearts and prayers.
Dennie (Dement) Schmidt
February 11, 2009
Jinx and I went to high school together at McCallum and what a fun-loving individual she was. My thoughts and prayers are with Jinx and her family at this sad time. She has been such an incredible influence on her students, their parents and friends; it was an honor to have known her. She will be greatly missed.
Fondly, Dennie (Dement) Schmidt
Pam Buckingham
February 11, 2009
Laura, Kim & Susan
My heart goes out to you, your families and the lives of those touched by your mother.
My prayers are with you all.
Jennifer Ray
February 11, 2009
Jinx Lacey helped me through a friend death in 99. She was a wonderful woman. I remember her having pillows piled in her room and we could just come and sit in there and talk to her about what ever we needed to get off our chest. When I found out a friend passed away I remember being in the hall way and her and another teacher walked out to get me and were so loving and comforting. She made a lasting impression on me as well as so many others. She will be missed greatly and is loved by many.
Rachel (Lindner) Poe, Class of '96
February 11, 2009
Ms. Lacey will always have a special place in my heart. She gave unconditional love and support in a rocky chapter of my life. During my senior year at McNeil, I was pregnant and uncertain of God's plan for my future. Ms. Lacey came beside me and my boyfriend and offered us wisdom and encouragement. Because of God's grace and people like Ms. Lacey, that boyfriend is now my adorable husband, and that adorable baby is now my teenage son (not quite as adorable now that he's 13...ha!) Ms. Lacey will be missed dearly, but has no doubt left a legacy and touched many lives.
My heart breaks for her family.
Respectfully,
Rachel and Stephan Poe
Tyler (13) and Ryan (6)
.
Ellen Reed
February 11, 2009
I was one of the Fluffs from Riverbend and since I wasn't one of the original members, she told me I would have to audition in the Gulf of Mexico. We went to Galveston, I auditioned and was honored to become a member of that gassie, classie group! We had many, many happy times with Jinx and life will never be the same without her. I trust that she can fluff in heaven!
Jessica Hickey
February 11, 2009
She touched alot of lives every day and will be missed.
Kasi Rudwick-Herzog
February 11, 2009
Jinx is very special to me and my father. She helped save our relationship! Jinx was very important to me during my high school years and I will miss her with all my heart! She will be missed, but never forgoten.
Quincy Minor
February 11, 2009
My deepest sympathies go out to Laura and her family.
Omar Cortez
February 11, 2009
Laura, Stephen, and Lacey family my prayers are with you during you time of sorrow. May God Bless you!
Susan Reed
February 11, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Jinx. I had the privilege of knowing Jinx through Riverbend Church and singing in the choir with her. She always had a great smile, quick wit and a genuine desire to make people happy and feel better about themselves. She will be greatly missed but her infectious laugh, optimistic spirit and loving words of support will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
Barbara Hernandez
February 11, 2009
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Sarah Perez Brier
February 11, 2009
When I started working at McNeil at the young age of 18, you were like my second mom. You took me under your wing and guided me through my 2.5 years there. I could never thank you enough for being my beaken of light during that time. You are truly loved and will be missed dearly! You are the best Jinxy! :-)
Katherine McCann Galloway
February 11, 2009
I was fortunate to attend school with Jinx, both in elementary and graduated from McCallum HS in '57 with a great, fun loving, caring lady. She went on to touch many lives. My sympathies to her family, friends and the countless "kids" that she nurtured. Bless you.
Molly Wolfe
February 11, 2009
I never met Jinx, however I'm learning that she was a true gift from God for everyone in her life. And Laura, it seems its safe to assume that your kind-hearted, concerned, and gentle nature was instilled in you from her. My thoughts are prayers are with you and your family. I pray you have peace in your heart.
Felicia Johnson
February 11, 2009
Laura,
I am so so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Felicia
Nanci Garcia
February 11, 2009
Laura, Stephen and Lacey family,
My thoughts and prayers to you all. May our Lord bring you peace and faith through this difficult time. I never had the pleasure to meet Ms. Jinx, but if she is anything like you Laura.... then I know for sure she was more than awesome! Lots of LOVE....... Nanci
Judy Browning Carlson
February 11, 2009
Jinx was the most pleasant person I’ve ever known. I can just see her going to school for an early meeting in her PJs. That’s Jinx. We graduated together from McCallum High School in 1957. I’ve seen her at every reunion since graduation and more. She will be missed so much! My deepest sympathy goes to her family. Judy Browning Carlson.
Sheri Slider Estes
February 11, 2009
Laura, my thoughts are with you at this sad time. Your mom was an incredible person and I was blessed to have known her. I am sending my love and prayers for comfort to you. I will see you soon. Love, Sheri
Christian Darnall
February 10, 2009
When near her I would brighten up and enjoy the small things. Very kind and gentle. Loving and compassionate.
Pat Lyckman
February 10, 2009
Dear Kim, Susan & Laura,
My heart is breaking for you girls and your families. Your mom was my dear, wonderful, special friend for almost 50 years and I loved her like a sister. We did not get to see each other as often as we should have and I deeply regret that. You just don't expect time to run out! But the times we did share were mostly spent talking about our kids and grandkids. She was so very proud of all of you!! I just want to say how sorry I am and that I share your pain and sorrow. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
I love you all and God bless,
Pat Lyckman
Jeanine Wade
February 10, 2009
It was impossible to be with Jinx and not feel happy. She radiated joy, enthusiasm and love. She made you feel that the world is a better place.
We worked together at the San Marcos Treatment Center, and I knew when I met her that she was a special person. She lit up a room, and knew how to bring out the best in kids, as well as adults. It is an understatement to say that she will be sorely missed, but it is clear that she will never be forgotten. Her love stays with us and our love goes with her....until we meet her again.
Venesa Montague
February 10, 2009
Jinx Lacey was a wonderful mentor for my daughter Mandi, when she attended McNeil. She loved her very much. When she died in 1999, the yellow butcher block paper went up in the hallways. I still have it. Thanks Jinx for all that you did for our children. What a party they must be having in heaven!!
Janelle (Jones) Dow
February 10, 2009
Jinx always made me smile. Through the years that never changed. God Bless!
Denise Williams
February 10, 2009
Jinx embraced all of life, as she often said, "the good, the bad and the ugly".
She lived with complete freedom and without fear.
Thank you dear Jinx.
Jan Johnson
February 10, 2009
Susan and Kim,
I taught with both of you at GMS, but I never had the pleasure of knowing your mom. I remember hearing about her from time to time during my tenure in RRISD, and it made me want to know her. I have been inspired reading all of these loving entries about your mom. Even though I never knew her, she has touched me, too. I hope the words written in these entries and all the love evidenced here will comfort you, and that you will feel her near always.
Juanda (Baker) DeCoulaz
February 10, 2009
Jinx was, and will always be, a special part of our family.
Anthony Nelson
February 10, 2009
I will always remember our hilariously awkward "nickname" conversation. I never wanted our conversations to end. She had a perspective and history that engaged.
Shea Mworia
February 10, 2009
There is so much I could say about Jinx Lacey... I was fortunate to know her personally and I cant thank her enough for all that she has taught me and given me through her daughter Laura Wessels. Jinx was one of the most amazing women I will ever have been blessed to know and call a friend. Thank you for the wonderful memories and life lessons. To the entire Lacey Family, you all have been and will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers... May God lift you through this time and bring you peace... We all feel Jinx smiling from above. Love and stuff Jinx Lacey!!!
Bonnie McCollum
February 10, 2009
Jinx Lacey,
You have helped me and my family through so much during our years at McNeil High School. You will be missed beyond belief by not just me but my sibling and the rest of the students at McNeil.
Bonnie, Katie, Paul, Chris, and Tracy McCollum
Sharon sligar
February 9, 2009
Your passing is felt deeply by anyone who ever knew you. I hope it is a comfort to your family that you meant so much to so many. Your spirit will always be a part of MHS.
Julie Savage C/O 2000
February 9, 2009
Ms. Lacey was one of the truly amazing people that made a difference. She left her legacy with her babies (each and every student that she touched). I will pass along the wisdom that was passed on to me by her. I know that a day has not gone by where I haven't been thankful for all her lessons.
I will always remember your laugh, your smile and the way in which you embraced and lived life. I never realized how much I learned (and still learning) from you until I got out in the 'real world'. I didn't see you nearly as much as I would have liked to but I saw you when I needed you. THANK YOU...THANK YOU...THANK YOU!!! It was very much so a blessing to have you as a part of my life! I LOVE YOU!
Ryan Miller, class of 2004
February 9, 2009
Jinx, or "Granji" as I came to call you, I can remember so many times spent in your office dealing with some bump in the road or planning activities for peer mediators, BITS and many other student organizations. You were such a source of strength and comfort for me and so many others during high school, and you stayed that away after graduation even though I only saw you rarely after that. You're unforgettable and you live on in each of us in the example you set, stories you told and mantras you created. I hope you'll keep watching over all of us, albeit from a new spot. Rest in peace and may your family draw from your strength.
Mary Catherine McSpadden
February 9, 2009
Laura, Kim, Susan -- and your children:
Jinx was as much fun as any ten people I know! As we grew up together in First Baptist Church, singing in Jim Berry's choirs, her energy and sense of fun -- as well as her lovely, strong voice -- brought joy to all of us. In the summer of 1957, our youth choir went by rented bus to Glorieta, NM. Jinx was the life of the party, the whole trip. I cannot think of her without smiling -- unless I'm laughing instead at the crazy, exuberant things she did.
It does not seem possible for her to be dead! Yet I know that she is, even now, singing in the heavenly choir and rejoicing in the company of those who were our mentors and guides at the church.
May God surround you all with comfort, peace, and assurance of her triumphant homegoing. May the memories you have, and those of all who knew her, help her to live always in your hearts.
Those will be lovely memories of a truly beautiful woman!
In Christ's love,
Mary Catherine (Moses) McSpadden
Terri King
February 9, 2009
The things I fondly remember the most about Jinx were her use of the word "piffle", all the chocolate in her office, she always had time for anyone, helping others notice the "elephant in the room", helping me and my students after the shooting, that laugh and the wonderful smile, and all those hugs. We truely lost a friend on Saturday. Jinx, I will miss you dearly. God Speed.
Billie Nozares
February 9, 2009
Laura, Stephen, and family - I was saddened to hear the news of the death of your mother. I am so sorry for your loss. I wish you comfort and peace at this time. You and your family are in my thoughts.
BRYCE THOMAS BAKER
February 9, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Rosemary Bencik
February 9, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow. Jinx was one of the happiest people I knew. Without her I would not have be able to be the parent I needed to be. I will remember her always.
Becky Simonton
February 9, 2009
Jinx, there are not enogh words to tell you what you meant to my family. You were there for us at a time when didn't know what would happen next. You helped my kids thru a rough time, and we are all better for it. May God bless and comfort your family at this time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
D'Anne and Allans mom c/o's 01 and 03
Pat O'Brien
February 9, 2009
Back in the 1970's - 80's, when Jinx lived in College Station she was the counselor at Allen Academy in Bryan, TX. She filled much the same role there as at McNeil as already noted in these many posts. I taught history and whatever else they asked me. We all wore many hats, Jinx more than most. Allen was a small high school in a different time, with a small dedicated faculty that served town kids and boarding students. A whole generation of teachers grew up with her, thinking that what she did was the way things were done and we're still doing things that way -heart first. Her contribution to students and teachers stretches in a long line from then to now. I thought you should know how wide her net was cast.
Kathy Schwartz
February 9, 2009
You will be remembered fondly by my whole family.
Sheila & Daniel Baker
February 9, 2009
Our thoughts & prayers are with Mrs. Lacey’s family and the McNeil High School Community. This is such a great loss. We will always remember that twinkle in her eyes and that contagious laugh! She was the truly the HEART of the Mavericks. Jinx was very concerned with the hearts of her students. She inspired Mavericks in the value of helping others and the fulfillment it would bring to their life.
Jinx, we love you and glad that your path led you through Round Rock ISD!!
Rene Baca
February 9, 2009
Thanks Ms. Lacey for helping our ECP class when there was a miss communication between the class and a new girl. We will asll miss you dearly
Brittany Bynes
February 9, 2009
Mrs. Jinx got me throught high school! She could get any teen to talk to matter how dark their hearts were. I ran into her at Catfish Parlor 2 weeks ago and sat with her for 30 minutes. I told her how much I loved her and that I had been meaning to go by mcneil highschool to tell her so. She said," I will be working at mcneil for the rest of my life....i will die at my desk. " She was a very influencial woman! Lord Bless her.
Shirley Hughes
February 9, 2009
It is heartwarming to read all the entries about my cousin Jinx. She was always such an active, caring person worthy of admiration. My condolences to her "girls" , brother, and their families.
Carrie Nuncio
February 9, 2009
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Jennifer Burnitt Caudle
February 9, 2009
Jinx was a very important part of my family years ago. I have very fond memories of our time together and I loved her dearly. She had an infectious joy about her that spread to all who were around her. Moving back to Texas recently I had made it my intention to get in touch with her but sadly I waited too long. I regret that but I look forward to seeing her in heaven. My thoughts and prayers to her family.
Jennifer
Cynthia Schiebel
February 9, 2009
I came to Austin/RRISD in 1997 and Jinx was one of the first counselors introduced to me. I was immediately impressed with the "aura" of love and joy and compassion that surrounded her and all those she inspired. She will be deeply missed but her love will be celebrated always.
Jeanie Veach
February 9, 2009
Jinx was a dear friend. I learned more about the healing power of love from Jinx than just about anyone else I've ever known. She was a treasure! P.S. I submitted a photo for the album.
Founding principal of McNeil, Alan Veach, and his all-time favorite counselor--well, really...his all-time favorite PERSON!
February 9, 2009
Ann McNamara Jordan
February 9, 2009
It is so wonderful to read all of the loving comments about my friend Jinx from so many former students, co-workers and friends. Jinx was a McCallum HS classmate of mine from many moons ago, and she was then as lively, wise and fun as she was until her accident. When we would gather for reunions, it was as if no time had passed as we all were able to pick right up where we had left off those many years ago. Jinx was always at the center of the laughter and piffle was already a word she used ..my deepest sympathy to her family..we have all lost a great friend.
Tiffany Wilson-Sykes (MHS Class of '96)
February 9, 2009
I was reading the newspaper yesterday and couldn't believe it when I saw the article about Ms. Lacey. She was one of those people that you expected to be around forever...and one you never forget.
Every time she introduced me to someone, she would say "This is Tiffany. She's going to sing at my funeral!" And every time, I would respond, "Don't say that Ms. Lacey! You're going to be around forever"! I really believed she would be!
Ms. Lacey indeed left quite a legacy and she will be greatly missed. To her children: My condolences go out to you. You were truly blessed to have such a wonderful woman as your mother.
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