Jacqueline Joyce Nice

“When I die, do not seek my resting place in the earth; find it in the hearts of people.”

— Attributed to the 13th-century Persian poet Rumi

There comes a time when the music softens, the dancers slow, and even the loudest applause gives way to a grateful silence.

Ninety years is a long song, and Jackie's was filled with melodies gathered and friendships made in every corner of the world. She loved music because it connected people, just as travel taught her that home is not simply a place, but the people we love and the kindness we carry wherever we went.

She crossed oceans, built a life in Saudi Arabia with her husband, Cole, and raised five children with courage, grace, curiosity, and a spirit of adventure. She also carried every mother's deepest sorrow after losing her beloved daughter, Judith, at the age of eleven. Yet love never left her heart.

The universe is vast beyond our understanding. Perhaps one of its greatest mysteries is that the people we love never truly disappear. They become woven into who we are, moving outward through memory, kindness, laughter, and love, like starlight that continues its journey long after it leaves its source.

Jackie taught us that strength is often quiet: showing up, opening your heart again after heartbreak, and choosing love every single day. In her final days, she still brightened whenever her grandchildren entered the room. Love recognized love, even when words became difficult.

The atoms that once danced together as Jackie will continue their infinite journey through the universe, just as her love continues through all of us.

Thank you, Mom.

Grammie.

Jackster.

Thank you for every embrace, every sacrifice, every lesson, every adventure, and every beautiful year. We will carry you with us in familiar recipes, stories shared around the table, music that makes us stop and listen, and every quiet act of kindness.

Your song does not end here.

It lives on in all of us.

Rest gently, Jackie. The music plays on.

Jackie is survived by her children, Stefani Nice, James Nice, Deirdre Nice, and Adam Nice; her adored grandchildren, Kai Nice and his wife, Breelyn Nice, Wyatt Nice, Jack Nice (Kyra), and Cal Nice; and countless dear friends and extended family around the world whose lives were enriched by her kindness, curiosity, and love.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Hospice of Southern Maine and Gosnell Memorial Hospice House for the extraordinary kindness, comfort, and care they gave Jackie during her final days. Their gentle presence brought peace not only to Jackie, but to all who loved her.

A Celebration of Life honoring Jackie Nice will be held on Sunday, September 20, at 2:00 PM at The Hill Arts, 76 Congress Street, Portland, Maine.

Family and friends will gather to share memories, stories, and photographs as we celebrate the remarkable life of a woman who touched so many hearts.

All who knew and loved Jackie are warmly welcome to join us.