Jacqueline Aytes' Obituary
Jacqueline Aytes
July 10, 1964 - September 19, 2024
It is with deep sadness that we share the loss of Jacqueline Aytes, a sister, veteran, and a loving mother. Jacqueline passed away at the age of 60, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and service. Born on July 10, 1964, in East Chicago, Indiana, to Eva Louise McDaniels and Edgar Wilburn. Her siblings are: Herman McDaniels Jr. (deceased), Diane L. McDaniels, Lorraine S. Alexander and Micheal Alexander, Vanessa Carol McDaniels Slaughter-Trotter (deceased), Derrick S. Ford, Edgar, Phil, Cassie, Anita, Gwen, Anthony. uncles Eddie Wilburn and Clarence Wilburn, Sr.
Jacqueline proudly served her country as a U.S. Marine from 1982 to 1986, embodying the discipline, strength, and courage that she carried with her throughout her life. She was truly a warrior, facing life’s toughest battles with resilience, including her fight against cancer. We take comfort in knowing that she is now in the loving arms of Jesus Christ, where there is no more sickness and no more pain. She lives joyfully in paradise.
After her service, Jacqueline pursued a career as a Phlebotomist and Lab Technician, working at Nester Community Health Center, LabCorp, and Quest Diagnostics, where she served as a Lead Lab Technician and Specimen Processor. She was passionate about her work and took pride in caring for others, a true reflection of her kind and compassionate heart.
As a devoted mother to her three children, Jacqueline raised them with unconditional love, wisdom, and perseverance. She was known for her warmth, kindness, and boundless love, which she freely shared with everyone she met. Growing up, we shared many special memories watching shows like Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction over our favorite Epic Wings dinners or enjoying her famous "bigger than your booty pancakes". She had a deep love for jazz and R&B, with Brian McKnight and Whitney Houston often filling our home with music. She also had a soft spot for black-and-white TV shows.
Jacqueline had a silly sense of humor and always knew how to make others smile. She was loving, caring, and generous, with a heart as big as the world. Her beautiful smile and contagious laughter will be missed by all who knew her.
Described by five words—loving, resilient, beautiful, sacrificial, and caring—Jacqueline’s love knew no limits. Her strength and grace touched everyone she encountered.
As we reflect on her life, we all agree with the heartfelt words of her sister, Aunt Lorraine "Rainy":
“To Jackie, my baby sister:
I am so heartbroken that I will never again know the joy of your laughter. But we will always be connected one way or another. My heart has a hole from your physical presence, but the memories of our good and bad times will take residence until we meet again.”
From her sister Diane:
Jackie, my loving sister. My heart is broken into a thousand pieces. I will miss our Sunday sister conference calls. Not hearing your voice will be unbearable. You asked me to “pray for you.” I have and will continue to do so. Love, your Big Little Sister
From her niece, Ayesha, also known as her “China Doll”: “To My Auntie Jackie,
I will always hold in my heart the fun times we shared, your voice, your laugh, and your jokes. Those memories, and knowing you are with Grandma, help to bring me comfort. Your heart was big, and I could feel your love even though we were miles apart.
Love you forever, Your China Doll, Ayesha.”
From her children: “We love you and we miss you. We will never forget the moments we shared. You will always be in our hearts forever, and we will never forget you. Thank you for making us who we are today. We are comforted knowing that you are in a better place. Love, Candi and FrankFrank.”
Jacqueline is survived by her three children and her siblings: Diane L. McDaniels, Lorraine S. Alexander, Micheal Alexander, Derrick S. Ford, Edgar, Phil, Cassie, Anita, Gwen, Anthony, and uncles Eddie Wilburn and Clarence Wilburn, Sr, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Her memory will forever live on in her children, family, and friends, who will carry her love and spirit with them always. Rest in Heaven, Jacqueline. Your unwavering love and courage will never be forgotten.
What’s your fondest memory of Jacqueline?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jacqueline?
Share a story where Jacqueline's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jacqueline you’ll never forget.
How did Jacqueline make you smile?