Jacqueline “Jackie” Pace

Jacqueline "Jackie" Pace
Passed peacefully on Saturday, November 1, 2025.

Born on June 4, 1939, in Walthall County, Mississippi, Jackie lived a life rich with purpose, adventure, and love.

Jackie devoted her career to education, where she inspired countless students and colleagues. She served as a teacher, principal at Arabi Park Middle School, and later as Middle School Supervisor in the St. Bernard Parish School System. Her dedication and excellence were recognized when she was honored as Louisiana Teacher of the Year in the 1980s - an achievement that reflected her lifelong passion for learning and teaching.

From her early teen years Jackie was raised by her Aunt Sue and Uncle Hershel Kennedy where she developed an adventurous spirit and a deep love for travel. She explored the world and United States, cherishing time spent at her beloved Aunt Sue and Uncle Hershel's cabins in Rand, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico. She also enjoyed many road trips with her brother-in-law, Dave, capturing their journeys through photography - one of her favorite pastimes.

A true lover of life, Jackie never missed a good party. Her years in New Orleans brought her immense joy - attending fairs, festivals, and celebrations with friends. One of her many companions at these events was her late cousin Dale Williams. She found peace and beauty in nature, especially through birdwatching and photography, and her stunning photos remain a treasured legacy.

Jackie adored her home on the Pushepatapa Creek, a haven built for her by her Uncle Silas. There, she hosted countless gatherings filled with laughter, love, and friendship. Her warm hospitality and zest for life made everyone feel welcome.

Jackie's greatest joy was her family and friends, whom she loved fiercely. She is survived by sister Pat Hanchey (Dave); Kristie Kennedy Varnado (Lee), Reggie Kennedy (Melanie), nieces Mary Genova, Anna Genova, Rachel Powell (Mike), Kathy Gardner; nephews Jed Kennedy (Paloma), Jake Kennedy (Kelli), Jeff Polk and Lucky Gardner. She also leaves behind two special aunts, Mavon Kennedy and Jeanette Pace who shared many great times together. She also leaves behind many other great nieces, nephews and cousins.

She will be deeply missed by her many dear friends, including Brenda Munch, Joann Moran, and Lynn Gagnon, whose friendship and kindness meant so much to her.

Jackie was preceded in death by her parents, Lois Thomas Gardner, Virgil Lee (Buck) Pace, stepfather, Breland Gardner, stepbrother Larry Gardner. She was also preceded by beloved second parents Sue and Hershel Kennedy, as well as Rhonda Kennedy Polk (Tony) and Danny Cibic.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to her loving caregivers, Sylvia Samantha Barnes and Gwen Hart, for their compassion and care during her final days.

Jackie's life was one of joy, generosity, and adventure - a beautiful example of how to live fully and love deeply. Her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Private family graveside service to be held at HJ Kennedy Cemetery in Angie, Louisiana.