Jacquelyn "Jackie" Carol Pruett

Born in Neelyville, Missouri on February 22, 1942, Jackie lived a vibrant and inspiring life, devoted to music, education, and the people she loved.

In 1962, Jackie married Jerry Pruett, and together they had two daughters, Christi and Kathryn. Jackie’s career as a music teacher and choir director began right after college and spanned continents and generations. Her life’s work impacted hundreds of students and colleagues who remember her for her honesty, warmth, and remarkable ability to teach not only music but life itself.

In 1974, Jackie moved with her family to Vienna, Austria, where Jerry had accepted a position as the lead tenor with the Vienna Volksoper. There, she quickly made her own mark as choir director at the Vienna Community Church and as a music teacher at the American International School in Vienna. She also founded the American Choral Society, dedicated to performing American music—from gospel to classical—an endeavor that reflected both her love of music and passion for choral excellence.

Following a one year move to New York, the family returned to Vienna in 1980, where Jackie taught at the Vienna International School. In 1982, they relocated to Paris, France, when Jackie became the Director of Music at the American Cathedral of Paris. While there, her choir performed The Messiah with full orchestra which was featured on CBS Sunday Morning with Charles Kuralt on Christmas morning. They also performed for Billy Graham and the Archbishop of Canterbury when each visited Paris and the Cathedral.

In addition to her work at the Cathedral, Jackie also taught at the American School of Paris, continuing to shape and inspire young musicians until the family returned to the United States in 1989.

Back in Connecticut, Jackie continued her teaching career in Canton and then at Avon High School. Jackie started the International Tours tradition while teaching in Paris, and she continued this tradition when she taught in Avon. She and her students visited and performed in countries such as Italy, Austria, Morocco, and the UK to name a few. Jackie retired from teaching in 2007 and moved to Charlotte, NC to be closer to her daughters and continued to enjoy music, entertaining, and traveling with cherished friends and family.

Jackie will be remembered for her undeniable spirit, infectious love of music, and the deep connections she forged throughout her life. Many of her former students have written to the family, sharing stories of the impact she made on their lives—testimonies to the legacy she leaves behind.

She is survived by her daughters, Christi Busch (and husband Bob) and Kathryn Pruett; her step-grandsons, Colin and Taylor Busch; her sister, Barbara Barriner; her brother, Ron Kimberlin (and wife Martha); and her best friend, Julia Wiellette (and wife Cherie). Her beloved grand-dogs, Molly and Chloe will miss her deeply, along with numerous cousins and dear friends from around the world.

Jackie will be laid to rest in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, alongside her family who preceded her in death. Celebrations of her life will be held in both Connecticut and Charlotte, with dates and times to be announced. Donations in her memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Jackie loved to sing, play the piano, throw unforgettable parties, and travel—especially when surrounded by the people she loved. Her voice, her laughter, and her kindness will echo in the hearts of all who knew her.