Jacqueline June Forry

Jackie June met the love of her life while ice skating at the Walter’s Pond in East Berlin, Pennsylvania. She was 15 years old when a young man of 18, with crystal blue eyes, mustered the courage to skate over and speak to her. Almost a year later, Jackie and Charlie began their courtship and during their Voluntary Service at Philhaven Hospital in Lebanon, PA., Charlie nervously dropped to one knee behind the dormitory and proposed. They were married February 23, 1957, at Stony Brook Mennonite Church, surrounded by friends and family. Their enduring love story was a remarkable journey spanning almost 67 years. Together, with their strong Christian faith, they raised a family of four sons: Jay (Dorothy), Carl (Linda), Marvin (Deb), and Dale; her grandchildren: Timothy, Yolanda, Michelle, David, Tifany, Jeremiah, Brandon, and Jeffrey, and 12 great-grandchildren. She deeply loved and cherished all her children and will always be remembered as a fierce and loyal protector of those she loved.

Mom’s gifts and talents were many. She taught herself to play the accordion, the piano, and the organ and she blessed many in a deeply spiritual way. She also loved to sing and for many years, was a dedicated member of the church choir. She was asked to direct the Christmas play at church and of course, she accepted, though she had never directed a play before, and it was wonderful. Mom was never afraid to try something new and she had an uncanny ability to learn quickly and accomplish many challenges. She was a respected breeder of poodles and golden retrievers, she taught herself to crochet and blessed each of her daughters-in-law with a handmade afghan as a wedding gift. Mom could drive a blue Ford tractor as well as any man which came in handy when she needed to fly across the property to get her mail.

A loving mother and homemaker, mom was a fabulous cook and enjoyed preparing meals for her family and friends, most especially over the holidays. Christmas was her favorite time of year and she spent several weeks planning, decorating, and making dozens of cookies with the expertise of her grandchildren and her great grandchildren. Everyone had a job: mixing, baking, decorating, and taste-testing. It wouldn’t be polite to name the taste-testers, but their names rhyme with Jay, Marvin, Carl, and Dale. Mom lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures; chatting with friends, snacking, and spending time with her children. She had the ability to bring laughter into even the most complex of circumstances. Her beautiful smile and her infectious laugh will remain with each of us and remind us that a little sugar goes a long way.

Love and deep appreciation go to Marvin and his wife Deb for their unwavering love and support during this last stage of Mom’s life. The family gives all of Mom’s very special caregivers their greatest and warmest gratitude. Your love for her was evident and will never be forgotten.

Her memory will forever be etched in our hearts, and the void left by her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved her. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your thoughts and support during this difficult time. She will be greatly missed. We love you, Mom.

A Memorial service will be held at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home in Cary, North Carolina on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.