In celebration of what would have been Jeanie’s 77th Birthday (March 6th) we wanted to add a few thoughts and some new recommendations for you.
In the week preceding the 1st anniversary of Jeanie’s death, I read again many of the sympathy notes sent to the family. We added to this blog many of them with some other memories that have come my way or found in files in the past few months.
Ode to Jeanie
Here’s to my dear Jeanie, The very best wife alive. Amazing, now we celebrate, Her birthday…sixty-five! I love her oh-so-much, And how she can inspire. My boundless appreciation Will simply never tire. She’s gorgeous and so sexy, Standing every test. An optimist in all the ways, She forever looks for the best. Her courage is remarkable, Her heart is warm and true. Her love of friends and family, Informs everything she’ll do. Even these last 7 years, Dealing with travail. Her courage and her strength, Have helped her to prevail. Little Mary Jeanne Sullivan, Born in March, ’46, for sure. The 3rd of 6 to Nana and Papa, Their “Pumpkin” brought joy galore. The little girl from Wellesley, A leader in lots of ways. Always a great swimmer and diver, And as a golfer, she would amaze. Nana and Papa had their girls Dress up and perform. “Gonna Get Along Without You Now,” Just fantastic – and the norm. Jeanie acquired a love of books, Classical music, too. Watching football with her dear Papa, Ski trips and Cape Cod would always do! Nana loved to call her “Miss Perfect,” That was like a rule. She became the class president While going to high school. Lots of great family trips, All those Patriot games, such fun. Visits with Aunt Eileen, Life was sure blue skies and sun. Then in 1963, A summer that can’t be beat. Right at B&N Day Camp, My darling Jeanie, I’d meet. We dated all through college, Writing every day. Then summers at the camp, It was perfect in every way. How we loved to dance, In fact, yes, we still do! Big Bands at the Totem Pole, The King Phillip Ballroom, too. We married on June 8, ’68, One week after college graduation. Our wedding song, “Fly Me To The Moon,” Still an ongoing sensation. Then off to Chicago, Graduate school for me. Jeanie teaching elementary school, A tougher job couldn’t be. A year later back to Boston, To Belmont, a family we’d start. In April of 1970, A wondrous matter of the heart. Heralding the birth, Of little Patrick, our number 1. We christened him our “Bug,” We had so much fun. Then off to the Big Apple, Where Jeanie walked a mile, To the hospital – to give birth again, She really did it in class and style. Our second lovely child, “Lady Bug,” our Heather. For we in the McKeigue clan, Life was truly fairest weather. From ’73 to ’76, Jeanie got her Master’s in ED. Then two more blessed events, Two more mouths that had to be fed. Michael, our “Sweet Prince,” Arrived in ’74. And a year later, Joanna, Our “Nina,” whom we adore. Bluff Point entered our lives, And for 37 glorious years long, That’s the wondrous site Of friends, family, love and song. In the fall of ‘76 We bought our home in Jamaica Plain. The house that keeps on giving, Right at 84 Louders Lane. All throughout the years, Jeanie has been an incredible mother. With presents, shopping and the greatest cooking, There truly can’t be another. Her dealings with four children, Above all she would tower. From daily trials and tribulations, To apportioning the morning shower. Along the way, we’d travel, Great trips, the whole world we’d see With a little stop for Master’s number two, This one at MIT. Meanwhile, through it all, A very busy life, Serving both BC and Boston, Throughout years of stress and strife. On the Boston School Committee, Through those desegregation days, so tough. Town and gown issues at BC, For all, Jeanie just couldn’t do enough. In 2003, she left BC, New worlds to conquer she’d locate. Consulting with the Boston School Department, A dynamo – she’s always great. She’s a marvel of the family, Accomplishments by the ton. Loving 11 grandkids, And caring for a mother…91. Now she’s fixed on getting healthy, She’ll do it, that’s for sure. There’s no one like our “Pumpkin,” Who could possibly ask for more? Jeanie, how I love you, And how I appreciate, Everything about you, In a word, you’re forever great. You mean the world to all of us, Your devoted family and friends. The ones who care so much, With devotion that never ends. And speaking just for me, You’re bright and warm as the sun above. With all my admiration, Happy birthday – with endless love.
A Poem and a Song
Last October Joanna sent this song to me….so touching….
A Story
At Christmas Dinner I read the following; it might resonate with some who have lost a person close to them-
I WAS THERE
By George Anderson December 11, 2014
Every once in a while a client will come along and ask a question that makes me look back at my life of listening to the souls, and brings me to such an incredible place of understanding of not only bereavement, but of the very essence of faith and hope. I was asked a rather simple question: “What were the most beautiful words you’ve ever heard from the souls?” I had to think about it– but the answer was spoken to me before I could even think of it, and it rang in my head and caused me to go backward through nearly 50 years of communication like an epic movie in the space of a few seconds. I realized the woman was still in front of me and waiting for an answer, so I told her–”They’re the three most simple words ever spoken.”
No, not those words–“I love you” is far too easy. These three simple words are so profound and important to the souls that they have the power to change everything we thought about the loss of our loved ones and our need to find hope. I thought back to the hundreds and perhaps thousands of times they have been said by the souls, and how poignant and beautiful they really are. The words are these:
“I was there.”
“I was there the first time you laughed in spite of yourself. I was there when you went back to work, and saw a movie, and tended to the garden. I was there when you started reaching out to others in the same boat, and I was there when you wished me a happy birthday, or a happy anniversary, or even a happy Tuesday. I was even there the day you first realized you found hope, and the first time you could feel my hand on your heart.”
“I was there when you planted the tree, when you created the scholarship, and when you donated your time and money in my name. I was there when you pulled another mother, father, husband, wife, brother, sister or grandparent aside to tell them you understand and it will be ok in time. I was there when you found a way to continue my work, and I was there when you honored me with your service to others. I was there when you ran the marathon, when you graduated, when you married, and when you retired. No milestone went unnoticed by me because whether you knew it or not, I was there.”
“I’ll be there when it’s time for the portal to open for you, and I’ll be there when your body takes its last breath. I’ll be there to be the first person to smile at you and I’ll be there to explain that at long last, your journey is done. I’ll be there when you say goodbye to the earth, and I’ll be there to teach you how to be there for those you’ll leave behind. I’ll be there, because I’ve been there.”
As I’ve said many times over the years, we are loved well beyond our comprehension, and we are never alone on the earth when we have a loved one in the hereafter. The souls have always been there for us, and until the day we see them again in a world of joy, they will always be there.
Some memories of Jeanie from friends near and far…
A Story from Jeanie’s Childhood from her best friend in elementary school: We little girls were talking about who had the nicest houses in our neighborhood. Susie Johnson’s dad was an architect and her house even had a loft overlooking the living room! Jeannie’s house was much nicer with wall to wall carpeting. I had a sinking feeling in my stomach and decided to just take the hit. I said” I have the worst house.” Jeannie immediately chimed in” but Andy, you have the nicest mother!” Well…, the sweetness of that remark has warmed me all my life. Jeannie had kindness on the instinct level! Andrea Bertocci Webber
[Jeanie] always made me feel as if I were her best friend….as her physical well being was deteriorating her optimistic cheerful personality was getting stronger. Pat Sharman
Jeanie left a powerful legacy and is sorely missed. Her voice was soft and gentle but powerful in its ability to convey compassion and empathy to all who knew her. I will never forget her generosity to me and my family. Mary-Ann Fraser
Jeanie is such a wonderful woman and a role model for us. Her love of life, boundless energy, and her welcoming smile are all the things we remember. Forever. We feel blessed to have had Jeanie in our lives and she will always hold a special place in our hearts. Jeanie was always so kind and welcoming to all the Hattons and she made us all feel special. We will always remember Jeanie as she was surrounded by her family, beaming with pride. The Hattons
She was such a remarkable person and led such an incredibly full life. We only wish we could have spent more time with her through the years. The time spent with her wee always memorable….She was always so genuinely interested in our family; what was everyone doing and where they were living….She was such an elegant and gracious lady. Bob and Linda Sullivan
…Jeanie was a salient part of the tapestry that was my life at a very important time ion my life, my four years at Trinity. I will always remember you and Jeanie as the consummate couple Freshman year at a time when no one had a girlfriend and certainly no one headed for Boston on a regular basis to see their girlfriend at any available and convenient time. That you two were “ sweethearts” wasn’t lost on many of us and learning that your lives together modeling a partnership of love and caring is a remarkable tribute to the two of you and the power of the lives that you lived. Larry Roberts
I always admired her tremendously. Whether on the Boston School Committee or at BC, she earned everyone’s respect with her gentle but forceful way. Her energy and warmth were contagious and I always enjoyed spending time with her. Deborah Brooks
A Memory of Jeanie’s Thoughtfulness… It was my first year as President [of The University of Hartford]. We had a reception before the game. Jeanie just showed up, she said to welcome me back to New England. Walt Harrison
I think you would enjoy hearing that my best friend from Wellesley High attended Warren Elementary with her around 4th grade. He was quite smitten and gave her a heart shaped box of chocolates one time. Obviously, it had no long-term impact, but you have to admire a guy who would put himself out there despite the inevitable peer ribbing. And you have to imagine that it would have to be pretty special girl! And that girl turned into a more-than-special woman. It is sort of amazing to believe that so much energy, determination, competence intelligence, emotional intelligence, interpersonal skills, and parental abilities could be wrapped in such a petite adorable being. She brightened my mood every time we were together. T. John Hughes
She had such a special sparkle! [Enclosed is a campaign thank-you note], it captures her warmth and consideration. I believe she…did much more to help us and the Freelance Players than we did to help Jeanie. How grateful we are and how lucky to have known her. Cathy Cor…Friend of Kippy’s
We will all miss Jean and will never forget her. She was the BEST. I’ll always remember when we had Mr. Rooney, Mr Kraft and Jean Sullivan together at the Beach Club-That was NFL history. Herb Roemmele
When I began Newton College of the Sacred Heart in Sept. 1964, after public high school and only brothers, I found myself in a whole new world. I had never before spent a single night away from home in Pelham, NY. Jeanie welcomed me and treated me with kindness; she helped me understand the new world of young women. Jo Tolksdorf Solet
Jean was a special person who always made us feel welcome in every gathering. Her warmth, smile and gracious manner toward all will be remembered. Jim and Marylou Greene
She was a loving, positive, supportive cheerleader to the Buckley family. From days (and evenings!) at CRCC to fun-filled weekends in Cotuit we hold many, many memories that will be forever dear to us. Our world was better and brighter because of her. Pat and Jerry Buckley and Family
My first memory of Jeannie was at Woodland Country Club where we use to race against each other. And then of course College. She was always so sweet and kind to everyone. Her qualities made her a great president of our class. She was such an inspirational and courageous person throughout her illness. Her welcoming smile was a joy. Chris White Bruguiere
Mrs. McKeigue was like a second mom to me during my Boston College years with Heather. She was always so helpful and kind to me, and I will always remember her beautiful smile that was always on her face. Jenni Colone
When Susan and I were new to the neighborhood, it was Jeanie above all others who made us feel welcome. She possessed an overwhelming store of admirable human traits-kindness, gentleness, calmness, respect, intelligence, humility, lyalty, compassion, empathy, integrity, humor, and fun-to name just a few. The everlasting image we will have of Jeanie is that great smile and those sparkling eyes. The grace and courage Jeanie displayed in the face of a dreadful disease provided a role model for us all. God help us to show even a portion of her resolve and selflessness when our time comes.…You have been a lucky man to have shared your life with such an extraordinary partner. Bill and Susan White
She was one of my favorite ladies to golf with back when I became a member in 2008. She always greeted everyone with a “Big Huge” smile and always gave me encouragement as I was a new golfer. She was a special woman for sure. I wasn’t aware of all her accomplishments but that’s because she didn’t have to say anything just a humble genuine lady. She had fought her illness for so long and finally God chose her to join him. Let’s remember the Beautiful person she was and may she be in peace until you meet her again. Cindy and Brian Dacey
Jeanie surely did pack enough into her time here on earth that would in most cases be the equivalent of 3 lives….focused on the things that were important: family, commitment, family, inclusion, family, forgiveness, family, start over, family, LOVE. Joan and Skip
She lit up every room she was in, elevated the conversation, and treated everyone with dignity and respect. She also had a great perspective on life and an inner toughness. I’ll never forget her coming to class at Sloan, the day after you had a house fire. She was right back to her class work saying “All is fine, it was only stuff that was harmed, and all of us ae safe. It sounds like she faced her illness head on and in the same fashion. We can all learn much from how she approached life each day. Jim and Audrey Foster
Oh so many memories going back so many decades to the vey earliest of days: arriving at orientation at Newton College in 1966 and finding that Jeanie was to be my big sister…how welcoming was that! Ands then at the very end of the trail weeks ago: I was working with Naniece at her house and the phone rang and it was Jeanie calling from the hospital during her final stay: I left the room to give some privacy and I was coming back the phone went to speaker and I could hear Jeanie asking “How‘s Laurel doing?”… with all that she had on her plate! But that’s who she was at all times and is what makes her so irreplaceable in all our lives. Laurelli
Pope Francis said that “if we walk in hope, we have joy in our hearts.” Jeanie was indeed a light of hope. Whenever I remember Jeanie, I will always see her beautiful smile. She sparkled with joy. I never knew her prior to her illness, but I suspect she never let it define her. It doesn’t seem possible that it has been 18 years since her diagnosis. Her loving Kindness and grace will now live on in her wonderful family. Toni and Jeff
We are so grateful to have known Jeanie as a friend and neighbor for so many years. Even in the busiest times of her life she had had time for a quick chat, always remembering some detail of our family and sharing fun stories of her own. We miss her determined walks around the block, bright smile of greeting on her face. Doug and Jeanne
I am deeply saddened that my conversations with Jeanie about children and books, Boston politics and world affairs, are permanently relegated to my memory. I enjoyed talking with Jeanie as much or mor than anyone else. When you came to our son Nate’s wedding “shower” in Boston …,I reminded Jeanie that when we moved to Boston, she recommended A Prayer for Owen Meany to me. She reacted with that characteristic Jeanie look – turning to to face me with eyebrows raised and saying slowly to emphasize her point, “Oh, wasn’t that SUCH a sad book. But VERY interesting psychologically.” I will always associate that book with Jeanie and adjusting to a new life in a new town. I will miss those conversations, and I will miss the moments in more recent past when Jeanie listened quietly, then entered conversations to make a perfectly on-point point that shed informed perspective on the issue at hand. She took in much more than her quiet demeanor suggested….Jeanie was one of the most dedicated and brilliant friends, wives, mothers, grandmothers, and politicians the world has known. Mary Jaffee
I grew to understand the “Warrior Spirit” she embodied. The Warrior Spirit described by the author Mary Rivas chooses to learn and grow from every opportunity because power is hidden in growth. Jeanie drew resiliency and hope from this inner strength even when situations seemed so hopeless or intractable. Her courage and capacity to make the most of life we should all aspire to and appreciate. Only time can replace the sadness and sense of deep loss with memories of the things done together and enjoyed as a family. I hope these words from Helen Keller will offer some comfort to you. “What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose. For all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” Joe Petner
Jean’s gentleness opened many windows and many doors to people, big and small. No one was more important than the other. Her job was to serve, put together a plan of work and make it happen. Her happiness was to find ways to support small organizations in the community with yearly grants and create programs for children to foster or challenge their education through many programs offered on campus. Jean’s joy was to know that someone had been helped. Jean travelled all throughout her journey always based on her humbleness and simplicity. That was her “trademark.” She could conquer the universe without making any noise, and never expected her due recognition. Most of all, she loved and respected everyone with her undivided grace. Laura Bitran
A Tribute to Nini
Our grandson, Teddy McKeigue, a Sophomore at St. Sebastian’s School in Needham, gave the following traditional “Chapel Speech” about Jeanie:
Nini by Teddy McKeigue (2/15/23)
My Grandmother was one of the most influential persons in my life. Mr. Burke, Father Arnes, members of the faculty, fellow students and invited guests, Jean Sullivan McKeigue, or Nini, was a woman that was inspirational. She was born on March 6, 1946 and was raised in Wellesley. She spent her summers growing up working at a day camp at BB&N, where she actually met Joe McKeigue, her future husband. She graduated from Newton College of the Sacred Heart in 1968, and shortly after married my Grandpa, who she had been dating since those day camps. She then began her career as a public school teacher in the west side of Chicago where she began being a guardian angel for kids. She also spent a lot of time when home, helping those families in Boston that were not as privileged or educated. She and my grandpa then began their life in New York City raising 4 kids: Patrick, Heather, Michael and Joanna. She created lasting friendships with the people who lived on their block while also going to Teachers College at Columbia University. Later, the family moved from New York, down to a home base in the McKeigue Family, 84 Louders Lane in Jamaica Plain. Nini was someone who ran the block as she was always having a bunch kids over or playing out in the yard, she was a ball of energy. She then was elected to the Boston School committee from 1980-1984 where in that time she was named president in 1982. She was someone who would always settle the problems in Boston Public schools, as she shows another act of her guardian angel-like abilities. She was always the most positive person when times were tough, and she did everything in her job and life with a smile on her face. She then went to get a master’s degree from Sloan’s School of Management at MIT where she learned to be a bridge and a guide for many programs or committees. She then was blessed with the Job of being the director of Boston College’s office of Community Affairs. She was able to manage and create several clubs and associations at BC where she was always willing to help and bring an extra bit of life to everything she did. While she was also being a guardian angel at BC, she would never come home tired from a day at work, only a big smile on her face and an intent to embark on any adventure that the kids could find. She was an absolute fire cracker at home having amazing annual Halloween Parties, or having dance parties, where she would dance the night away.
In 2004 she was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, but this did not drag down her will not only to stay positive, but to even live. She was inspirational, for though the doctors did believe there was not a lot of time left, she was relentless. She battled cancer for 18 years, while still being an absolute ball of energy. She always had a smile on her face through the thick and thin. She was there for everyone always, whether it was my flag football games in the blizzarding snow, or a 2 hour dance recital for my sisters, she was there cheering us on with a smile on her face. During the late nights in the summer when we had nothing to do, she still would come into the room blasting her music and beginning a family wide dance party. Though she was always sick throughout my life, with her natural charisma and positivity she was still the life of the party.
On February 4, 2022, she passed away with a smile on her face surrounded by her 4 kids. The day of her funeral, though it was sad, was the first time my whole extended family was together in many years. She had brought a spread group of people together into a family that day. We spent the day after the service telling stories and laughing for hours and everyone felt Nini right there with us. I truly understood and took to heart the saying that death is not the period of a sentence, only a comma, for Nini’s presence lives on our lives everyday and will continue to live on as we spread joy.
Jeanie McKeigue 
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