Jacqueline “Jackie” McElroy, 74, of Ottumwa, died at 4:32 p.m. August 15, 2026 at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
She was born April 2, 1952 in Ottumwa to Marinus and Geneva Sheppard Aalbers. Having been together 15 years, Jackie married Patrick McElroy September 25, 1998. He preceded her death June 22, 2002.
Jackie attended Ottumwa schools and was co-owner of “Yo Mamma’s” sandwich shop. She had worked for the City of Ottumwa, Excel for 9 years and BP. She held a CDL and drove a truck with Patrick for 5 years.
Jackie was a member of Walter B. Schafer Post #775 Veterans of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxillary and had been in a bowling league. She loved spending time with family, especially her granddaughters.
Surviving is her son, Ryan Bain (Maegan Baker) of Ottumwa; 2 granddaughters, Sydney and Braylin Bain; a sister, Janet (John) Richards of Ottumwa; a brother, Rick Aalbers of Ottumwa; a very special friend, Carol Silvia; close friends, Margaret Van Polen and Cindy Barnes. Her beloved dog, Sofie.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Gary Bain, Jr.; a brother, John Aalbers; a sister, Maureen Abbott; a special dog, Jack.
Visitation will begin 11 a.m. Thursday, August 20th, at Reece Funeral Home with the family present to greet friends from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday.
Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Friday, August 21st, at Reece Funeral Home with Chaplain Doug McAntire officiating.
Cremation will follow the service.
Memorials may be made to Heartland Humane Society.
