Jacqueline S. Conte

Jacqueline S. Conte, age 74, of North Canton, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, July 5th, 2025. She was the beloved daughter of the late John (Jack) and Geraldine (Gerrie) Smith.

After her graduation from Marymount College for Women, Jackie held various jobs from a college director of admissions to a sales manager for the John S Knight Center, but the work that brought the most meaning to her life was that of an addiction counselor. Jackie founded the HUGS House (Help Us Give Sobriety) to help alcohol and drug addicted women seek rehabilitation and get their lives back on track. Although the HUGS house eventually closed, she continued to work with both alcoholics and drug addicts as well as their families to support people seeking sobriety.

But above all else, Jackie's true calling was that of a mother. Jackie loved her boys more than anything in the world. She would go on about how much she loved them to anyone who would listen. She taught them how to love unconditionally and truly care for other people, but also to never mistake kindness for weakness.

Jackie was a beacon of light and love to anyone who came into contact with her. Her infectious laughter and warm spirit were able to uplift anyone, even in their darkest times. She was always a safe haven for anyone who needed help, guidance, or just a listening ear. And even when that courtesy was not always returned, she always gave the opportunity to forgive and forget.

She loved to host visitors and cook fabulous meals, or just to have friends and family drop by and make coffee and share whatever goodies she may have had on hand. She was the epitome of selflessness, always giving and offering to help where she could. She truly loved those that she was close to and was a wonderful example of compassion in the world. Her grace, kindness, and strength will be missed by all who knew her.

Jacqueline is survived by her two sons, Dominic Conte (Brooke) and Michael Conte (Guenna), grandson Henrik Conte, cousins Paul Gitnik and Peter Gitnik, niece Beth Hamo, nephews RJ Hamo (Tam) and Chip Hamo (Christine), and brother-in-law Ron Hamo.

Jacqueline was preceded in death by her sister, Susan Hamo, and her nephew Mark Hamo.

"God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." We are all praying for serenity at this time.

Calling hours/visitation will be held at Hummel Funeral Home & Crematories at 500 E Exchange St Akron, OH 44304 on Sunday, July 13th from 1PM to 4PM. Jacqueline will be laid to rest privately at Jefferson Memorial Cemetery in her family mausoleum