Honoring Jackie Yelland with a Memorial Bench

Our dear friend, Jackie Yelland, lost her life on July 6, 2023 suddenly due to a stroke at the young age of 43. To say this was a shock would be an understatement.

Those that knew Jackie know that she was full of energy – a bright light. Jackie would wake up early each day and take on the day by completing several workouts and house chores while most are still asleep. She would fill her time at work by helping her clients and colleagues, but also volunteering for countless projects and assisting new hires. We often wondered how she did it.

More importantly, Jackie was a loving wife to Anthony and mother to their boys, Jackson and Ryan. Being a mother brought Jackie the most joy and as with any other challenge brought her way, she seemed to handle it with grace and ease- frequently sharing her tips and tricks with others. If you wanted to know what store had the best discount on children’s pajamas or what to put on your baby registry, you would ask Jackie. If your baby was transitioning from a bottle to a sippy cup and you seemed stressed or lost, Jackie was right there to help.

It was in Jackie’s nature to lend a hand and help others – we saw this time and time again. At the end of her life, Jackie made the ultimate gift as an organ donor, giving life to multiple strangers. We know our dear friend would be so proud of this.

To honor our beautiful friend, we are looking to raise funds for a memorial bench at Emmadine Pond near their home in Hopewell Junction, NY. Jackie would often read on the benches here while the boys would fish. Anthony, Jackson and Ryan still continue to fish at this pond. We know this gesture would bring them joy during a difficult time.

If we’re lucky to reach our goal, any additional funds would be given to Anthony.

To our beautiful angel: We miss you terribly and it still hurts that you’re gone, but we’ve seen your frequent signs and know that you’re still with us. We will always love you. Until we meet again, dear friend.

Best,

Karen Kidney & Megan Moran