Maurine Jarrett, a beloved figure in St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on October 25, 1930, to Edward and Edna (Bunse) Heinz on a family farm near Cosby, she dedicated her life to her family, music, and community.
Growing up in a rural setting, Maurine learned the importance of hard work from an early age. She attended the Prairie Valley one-room schoolhouse, walking over a mile each day, and later graduated from Savannah High School in 1948. There, she showcased her musical talents by playing the clarinet in the marching band. After completing her education, she worked initially in sewing before transitioning to an office role at Ely Walker in St. Joseph.
In 1952, Maurine married James (Jim) Jarrett, a veteran of the Korean War. The couple purchased a farm east of Cosby, where they spent 63 fulfilling years together. Their union produced two sons, James Jr. and Gary, and Maurine cherished the memories of raising them on their farm. She was known for her gentle and loving approach to parenting, instilling valuable life lessons without anger.
Maurine’s commitment to her community extended beyond her family. She was an active member of the Methodist Church in Clarksdale, Missouri, serving as the organist and pianist until the church’s closure in 2023. Following that, she attended Bethel Baptist Church, sharing her musical gifts through piano performances. Her favorite hymn, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” and the scripture Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 held special significance for her throughout her life.
With a passion for teaching, Maurine dedicated 22 years to instructing local youths in piano. Her patience and kindness made her a beloved educator in the community. In 1972, she shifted her career to Boehringer Ingelheim in St. Joseph, where she worked for 21 years as a research technician, contributing to the development of several animal vaccines.
Maurine was an enthusiastic member of the Friendly Twenty Club for over 50 years, and her interests encompassed gardening, reading, and documenting history. Music remained a central theme in her life; she played at numerous weddings, funerals, and events at local nursing homes for more than 75 years. At age 92, she performed a concert at Mosaic Hospital at the request of the hospital’s CEO, showcasing her lifelong dedication to music.
She is survived by her sons, James Jr. (Suzan) of Cosby and Gary (Jill) of Kansas City, as well as grandchildren Nick (Lindsey) and Cora from Kansas City, and Nathaniel (Alyssa) from Cosby. Additionally, she leaves behind step-granddaughters Camilla Hendren and Jordan Davis, four great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Maurine’s family expressed their gratitude to Freudenthal Hospice and Abundant Acres (Shady Lawn) nursing home for their compassionate care during her final years. In her obituary, she conveyed her deep love for her friends and family, requesting that they remember her with fondness, especially when they see a falling star.
Private family services will be held at a later date. An online guest book and obituary are available at www.meierhoffer.com. Maurine Jarrett’s legacy of love, music, and community service will be cherished by all who knew her.
