Jacqueline Grosso Ferrara was born to John and Julie Grosso in Franklin Township, New Jersey, on January 2, 1951. The eldest of four siblings—Robert, Alan, and Joel—Jackie grew up in Somerset and graduated from Franklin High School (go Warriors!). She went on to earn her master's degree in speech pathology from Montclair State University.

Jackie began her career in Glen Ridge, had a brief stop in Rutherford, and finished her professional journey in Millburn, where she retired during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It was during a snowstorm, while studying at Montclair State, that she met the love of her life, Charles "Charlie" Ferrara, at Tierney's Tavern. They shared a marriage of 50 years and raised their two children, Christie and Stephen, in Montclair.

Jackie had a deep love for books, music, gardening, antiquing, and dogs. Her sharp ear earned her the affectionate title of "Name That Tune Champion" among friends. To her children, she was simply "Mom," and to Charlie, she was "Jack."

She twice triumphed over cancer, ultimately passing due to complications from Amyloidosis.

Jackie is survived by her husband, Charles; daughter Christie and her husband Alistair; son Stephen and his wife Yhasmina. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and laughter.

A funeral mass celebrating Jackie's life will be held at St. Cassian's Church on Friday, May 30th at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Humane Society of Montclair in her memory.