Jackie's obituary
Jacqueline Reiss, a beloved resident who touched the lives of many in Binghamton, New York; Old Bridge, New Jersey; and Inverness, Florida, passed away peacefully at the age of 88.
Born in Binghamton, New York, Jacqueline lived a life full of love, learning, and service to others. She graduated from Binghamton Central High School and earned a BA in Chemistry from Marymount College. Her pursuit of knowledge continued with an MA in Education from Columbia University. Jacqueline also had a musical side, playing the trumpet and singing in choirs.
She raised three children in Old Bridge, New Jersey, and actively volunteered as a Boy Scout and Girl Scout leader, soccer coach, and many other family interests. Jacqueline dedicated her career to education, teaching biology, health and wellness, and environmental science at middle schools, high schools, and colleges. She was passionate about mentoring youths and worked as the Coordinator for Eckerd Youth Alternatives at Camp E-Nini-Hassee in Floral City. She also led the "Seniors on the Move" program for the Senior Foundation of Citrus County, demonstrating her commitment to enhancing the lives of all generations.
A devout member of her faith community, Jacqueline was an active participant at St. Scholastica Catholic Church in Lecanto, Florida. She sang in the choir and served as a lector, sharing her voice and spirit with her congregation.
Jacqueline's interests were as diverse as they were deep. She loved golfing, singing, and gardening, and was captivated by the beauty of nature, cherishing blooming flowers, sunrises, and sunsets. She was a health and wellness enthusiast, an avid traveler, a history buff, and a food lover. Jacqueline was a devoted Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey and Tampa Bay Rays baseball fan, cheering on her favorite teams.
Her passion for genealogy led her to join the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Genealogy Society. She taught genealogy classes and helped many trace their heritage, leaving a lasting legacy of family and history.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Reiss, her sisters, Patricia Campana and Vicky Stewart, and her son William Reiss. Jacqueline is survived by her brother, daughter, and son, her five grandchildren, her nieces and nephews, cherished friends, and family, all of whom will miss her dearly.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a memorial fund in honor of Jackie to benefit local charities and organizations, continuing Jacqueline's legacy of caring and service. A memorial service will be held in Inverness, Florida in December; details will follow.
Rest in peace, Jacqueline. Your light, love, and wisdom will continue to inspire and guide us.