Jacqueline Ann Coonen

Our family is saddened to announce the passing of Jacqueline Ann Coonen, 96, of Westerville, OH, formerly of Gallipolis, OH. She peacefully passed away May 18 2024. Jackie was born on March 9, 1928 to Ruth and Max Averell in Akron, OH. After Jackie graduated from North High School in Akron, she attended Kent State University for two years with a major in home economics.

In 1952 Jackie met the love of her life, James W. Coonen at a YMCA dance in Akron, when he accidentally stepped on her foot. It was a match made in heaven. Jackie and Jim married the next year and went on to have four children. Jackie, Jim, and their growing family moved to Gallipolis, OH in 1959 and put down strong roots. Among Jackie's many accomplishments, she led a Brownie Scout troop, refurbished the Lafayette Hotel's banquet room, initiated and directed five Weight Watcher programs, and served on the board of the Gallipolis Historical Society. One of her most treasured endeavors was her position as volunteer coordinator and docent for the Our House Museum. Jackie loved dressing in costume and portraying 1790s characters.

In the mid-1970s Jackie returned to college, this time to pursue a BA in sociology from Rio Grande College. Shortly after graduating, she was hired by Gallipolis Developmental Center as a social worker and then as Director of Social Services. For nearly twenty years, Jackie also served in Gallia and Franklin Counties as an ombudsman for the State of Ohio. These were very fulfilling years for her.

In addition to her family and career, Jackie had many other interests and pursuits. She became Catholic in 1997 and then a member of the Secular Franciscan Order in 2008. Jackie was an active member of Daughters of the American Revolution, Colonial Dames, and Founders and Patriots. She enjoyed creative writing, travel, reading, line dancing, antiques, and history.

Jackie was predeceased by her husband of fifty-four years, Jim (2007). She is survived by her children, Lyn Ford (Bob) of Danville, CA, Connie Morgan (John) of Westerville, OH, Rene Cox (Carl) of Bellville, OH, and Mike Coonen (Sharon) of Cedar City, UT, eleven grandchildren, and seventeen great grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, Westerville on June 1st at 10 A. M. Father David E. Gwinner Celebrant. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 61 Moss Rd., Westerville, OH 43082.