Jacqueline Kiernan

Jacqueline Stalker Sears Kiernan of Westfield, age 97, passed away on November 21, 2025. She was born on April 3rd, 1928, in Worcester, MA. She grew up in Tewksbury, MA where she was raised by her aunt Astrid Enborg, and two sets of grandparents. Jackie graduated from Tewksbury High School, where she played basketball (half-court, in the style of the 1940s for women), was a cheerleader, and a very enthusiastic participant in all social aspects of school life, including dances with the music of the Big Bands.

Jackie went to secretarial school, and worked at Third National Bank, Nantucket Capital Bank, and later, at Sweet Life wholesale foods corp. Jackie was diplomatic and enjoyed conversation. She liked an interesting turn of phrase.

Jackie married Robert "Mike" Sears, settling in East Springfield, where they raised two daughters, Sharon and Donna. They spent many years surrounded by family, taking summer trips to the outer Cape. Jackie loved walking, and was never without a book. Her home was always warm and welcoming.

Jackie later married John "Jack" Kiernan, where they settled in East Longmeadow, spending many happy winters in Naples, FL. Jackie and John traveled extensively in retirement, to Italy, Portugal, Costa Rica, Sweden, and other fantastic places. Everywhere they went they made friends, chatted with strangers, and collected stories. Jackie was very photogenic; if a camera was around, she was ready with a smile.

She leaves behind her two loving daughters, Sharon Pinkerton of Chicopee, MA and Donna and her husband Dino Bedinelli of Westfield MA. Her step-children Nancy Kiernan Campbell, who has been so kind and attentive; and David and John Kiernan. Jackie was predeceased by a granddaughter Jennifer Pinkerton. Brandy, Amy, and James Pinkerton; Dino Bedinelli, his partner Clementine; Nicole Bedinelli, and Jackie's namesake Jaclyn S. Bedinelli will miss her dearly, along with 11 great grandchildren.

All services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. New England Funeral & Cremation Center, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA, has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please visit Jacqueline's memorial page at www.nefcc.net for expressions of sympathy.

"And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever..."

Psalm 23