Jacqueline Marlene Govi

Jacqueline Marlene Govi, 77, passed from this life on Saturday, November 22, 2014 following a lengthy illness. A private burial service was held at Glendale Cemetery in Des Moines.

Jackie was born on November 17, 1937 in Evansville, IN to Kenella LaVerne and Clifford Parrish. She met Gary Govi and moved to Des Moines, where they were married in 1955. Jackie was a Licensed Practical Nurse and graduated from Des Moines Area Community College with an Associate of Science degree in Human Services. She worked as a nurse at Mercy Hospital and for private physicians, focusing on pediatrics. She was later hired to set up the infant and toddler nursery at Tiny Tots. She co-founded a support group, “Mothers’ Club” for mothers of children with special needs following the birth of her twin daughters, Nancy Kay and Karen Ann.

Jackie was an avid NASCAR fan, and enjoyed spending time with her family, snuggling with her dog Sophie, traveling, cooking, flower gardening, and watching Dancing with the Stars. She was a guest on The Price is Right and The Art Linkletter Show, and in 1989 she was honored by WHO TV as a “Super Mom.”

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Gary Govi; daughters, Debbie Richards and Diane Govi; granddaughter, Ellie Richards, all of West Des Moines; sisters, Peggy Krohn of Chandler, IN and Stanella Christine Johnson-Penfield of Roseville, CA; and her nieces and nephew of Indiana. Jackie was preceded in death by her twin daughters.

The family would like to thank UnityPoint Hospice for the loving care and resources provided to Jackie in her final months. Memorial contributions may be directed to Taylor Hospice House or Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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