Jacqueline Sue Zepnick

Jacqueline Sue Zepnick, 77, of Columbia passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 19th, 2020, at The Bluffs.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Columbia at a future date when it is safe for family and friends to gather.

Jackie was born September 5th, 1943, to Francis Leon and Mae Fern Reed Cathey in Columbia, Missouri. She graduated from Hickman High School in 1961. She married in 1966 and started a family, spending some years in Wisconsin and North Carolina and ultimately back to Columbia to raise her children.

As a mother and grandmother, Jackie modeled selflessness and empathy. She was a hands-on mom, the kind who played cards, proofread book reports, and came to school events. Jackie also passed along an appreciation of art, music, and literature; Monet, Joan Baez, and John Grisham being some of her favorites.

Jackie served in professional roles including book-keeper and telephone operator, but her most treasured role was her 35+ years she spent as a receptionist and administrative assistant at Missouri State Teachers Association. She spoke with thousands of teachers over her career there and also became known as the “unofficial historian” of MSTA by her beloved colleagues.

Over the years, Jackie enjoyed traveling, spending time with family, and spoiling her loyal dog, Chloe. Those closest to her describe her as a witty and generous soul. She could carry on long conversations about dog breeds, politics, family ancestry, and favorite recipes. She will be missed dearly.

Jackie is survived by her son Shaun Zepnick; her son Chris Zepnick; her daughter Rebeckah Mayer; her grandson Micheal Lee (wife Katie); and her granddaughters Lola and Mirabel Mayer. She is also survived by her brother Phil Cathey (wife Susan).

She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis Leon and Mae Fern; and her brother, Vernon D. Cathey.