Kathryn Jaeger

The family of Kathryn Jaeger, 63, of Glastonbury is saddened to announce her passing on July 24, 2022. Kathy died peacefully in her home after a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Kathy attended West Hartford schools, graduating from Conard High School. At the time of her death, she was on the committee planning her 45th Class Reunion, set to occur this September. She went on to receive a B.S. from Cornell University in Nutrition. Kathy dedicated the last 25+ years of her life to helping others. She was a Chaplain at Hartford Hospital for several years providing pastoral care for people experiencing trauma as well as bereavement support for victims' families. For the last 24 years, Kathy was also associated with Middlesex Hospital, first as a volunteer, then as a Bereavement Coordinator and for the last 15 years, a Spiritual Counselor in their Hospice Homecare Program. She had just retired from the hospital this past April. Kathy was also a Reiki Master and incorporated that into her support visits along with Pet Therapy with her beloved Briard, "eight days a week". A key component of Kathy's character was her formidable strength and belief in doing what's right, both for herself and others. This strength was supported by her unwavering faith in God. Kathy's faith was steadfast and is recognized by her friends and family, the people that she counseled and her fellow parishioners at Grace Episcopal Church. A member of Grace Episcopal since 1997, Kathy was an active and respected participant in the Church and its ministries. She was a Liturgical Deacon/Minister of Communion and an Acolyte and volunteered for the church Pantry as well as several committees. In addition to her professional work and church endeavors, Kathy also participated in various civic organizations. She was a Big Sister for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, "Buddy Support" for AIDS Project Hartford, and a Bereavement Support Advisory board member for Survivors of Homicide. During her leisure time, she enjoyed being outdoors, especially near the water. She loved nature and appreciated its beauty and simplicity. Kathy was the youngest child of the late Karl & Nancy Jaeger. She is predeceased by her cousin, David Thomson. Kathy will be lovingly remembered by her brothers, Steven Jaeger of West Hartford, Dana Jaeger of Rocky Hill, cousins Laura Trinks of Farmington and Paul Thomson of Uncasville, nieces, a nephew, her former spouse, Mark Ripley of Coventry, as well as many friends, coworkers, and neighbors. In lieu of flowers and in recognition of Kathy's love of nature, please send flowers to a loved one to brighten their day. In lieu of a monetary donation, kindly volunteer for a worthy cause. And in her memory, practice Random Acts of Kindness…. The family wishes to extend many thanks to the people who brightened Kathy's final months & days. Her neighbors, Beth, Sue, Gene & Connie as well as her close friends, Heather, and Trish and fellow parishioners at Grace Episcopal. Your care, concern and time is so appreciated, and we know that you made such a difference to Kathy. A service of Remembrance will be celebrated on Friday, September 9th at Grace Episcopal Church, 55 New Park Ave., Hartford starting at noon. People wishing to call on the family may do so at the church starting at 11:00 am. On-line condolences may be made at: www.sheehanhilbornbreen.com