Jacalyn A. (Collette) Woolhouse

Sturbridge - With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Jacalyn “Jackie” Andrea Woolhouse, 84, a devoted mother, adoring grandmother, cherished sister and aunt, and beloved member of every community she touched. She left this world peacefully, surrounded by her family.

Jackie was born on December 23, 1940, in Southbridge, MA. The daughter of the late Phyllis Kathan Collette and Joseph Collete. Jackie graduated from Mary E. Wells High School in Southbridge, Ma in 1959.

She is now reunited with the love of her life, Ron, who passed away in 2018. They were married on June 1, 1963, at St. Mary’s church in Southbridge. Their love was a beautiful, enduring bond—one that continues to inspire all who knew them. Together, they built a life of love and joy.

She leaves behind her two daughters, Wendi Woolhouse of Vienna, ME and Sherri Klein and her husband David Klein of Southborough, MA, and four beautiful grandchildren, Alex and Nicholas Klein, Leah and Logan Woolhouse and her grand-fur babies Cessy, Mugsy and Chewy.  She also leaves her twin sister Judy Ropiak of Sturbridge, Penny Dykeman of Southbridge, Susan Rushlow and her husband Wayne of Leicester. She also leaves behind her Aunt Joyce Mandela of Auburn. She also leaves behind extended family, sister-in-law Judy Balch and her husband Lloyd of Tennessee, her niece Debbie Schneider of California, and many nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her sister Joyce Silva and her brother-in-law Stan Ropiak.

Above all, Jackie treasured her family. Her grandchildren were the center of her world, each milestone, every laugh, a source of immeasurable pride and joy. She lit up in their presence, and her love for them was unmatched.

For many years, Jackie worked as a swim team manager at the YMCA in Southbridge, a role she embraced with joy and dedication. She took great pride in supporting young swimmers, watching them grow not only in skill but in confidence. Her heart was fullest, though, when watching her children compete and succeed in sports. Those moments of pride and excitement stayed with her always, and she never stopped talking about how much those memories meant to her.

Kennebunk, Maine, held a special place in her heart—a peaceful escape filled with cherished memories and time spent with those she loved most. She also looked forward to times spent with her close-knit group of friends in Florida, whose laughter and companionship brought her happiness throughout the years.

Jackie will be remembered for her big heart, her kind spirit, and her deep love for her family. She made every holiday brighter, every gathering warmer, and every moment more meaningful.

The family invites you to join them at calling hours on Thursday, April 10, 2025, 5-7pm at Sansoucy Funeral Home, 40 Marcy Street, Southbridge, MA. The funeral mass will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 11am at St Mary Church, Saint John Paul II Parish, 247 Hamilton Street, Southbridge, MA. Please meet directly at the church. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery, 111 Main Street, Southbridge, MA.

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