Jacquelyne Marie Owens

Jacquelyne Marie Owens, a beloved wife, mother, nana, sister, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on December 16, 2024, in Canton, Michigan. Born on April 2, 1954, in Ottumwa, Iowa, Jacquie dedicated her life to her family and created a warm and nurturing home for those she loved.

Jacquie and Tom had a chance meeting in a stairwell when Tom was leaving a Halloween party as Jaquie was just arriving in 1974. It was love at first sight for both of them. Engaged by Christmas and married that June. They spent the next 49 years devoted to each other. Jaquie set out Tom’s clothes before work every day until he retired. And Tom doted on and cared for her every day. Their song was “Happy Together” by the Turtles, and they absolutely were. 

Jaquie's role as a mother to Zachary (Jeana Jorgensen) Owens and Mckenzie (Steve) Unwin was marked by her unwavering love, always there to listen and offer an opinion, teaching them about love, forgiveness, confidence, and courage to chase their dreams. She fostered a close-knit family bond that will endure through generations.

Her heart overflowed with joy as she embraced the role of Nana to five grandchildren: Geneva Unwin, Ryan Unwin, Gabriel Jorgensen, Ian Jorgensen, and Brandon Jorgensen. Jacquie treasured every moment spent with them, attending every game and show that she could, learning all the rules of their sports and hobbies, and the latest trends.

Jacquie was also deeply connected to her sisters, Jennifer Skyles and Linda (Doug) Pileggi. She will forever be their little sister. The bonds formed with them over the years were an essential part of her daily life and identity. Distance could never keep them far apart, they spent hours on the phone together sharing every part of their lives. Along with her brother Jeff (Brett) Skyles. 

Jacquie was an accomplished gardener, artist and designer. She kept a beautiful home. Our Jacquie loved coffee, ice cream, clothes, music and British crime thrillers. She travelled the world, rode dirt bikes, and planted beautiful gardens. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Leo John “Jack” Skyles and Geneva Skyles, whose legacies continue to inspire and guide the family she so dearly cherished.

A Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, December 28, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth, Michigan with a Memorial Service starting at 5:00 PM.

Those who wish to honor the memory of Jacquelyne Owens are invited to consider a donation to the Pepper Foundation, P. O. Box 46711, Seattle, Washington  98146.  Contribution envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Jacquelyne Marie Owens will be remembered for her laugh, her strength, and the unconditional love she radiated. Her adventurous spirit will live on through her family, who she was so proud of and knew how much she loved them. She was brave and beautiful and we are so lucky to love her. Her love and memory will always be a blessing, and her light will continue to shine through all who knew and loved her.