Jacqueline “Jackie” Lee (Bosch) Ames, age 94, passed away at the Sunflower Care Home in Emporia where she was lovingly cared for until she went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 14, 2026.
She was born on February 23, 1932, in Wichita Kansas, the cherished only child of Herbert Elvins and Ardella Pearl Bosch.
Jackie grew up on a small farm outside Council Grove, Kansas where she learned the value of hard work, responsibility, and family values she carried with her throughout her life. After moving to Emporia, Kansas to attend nursing school, she found not only her calling, but also the community that would become her lifelong home.
Jackie graduated from nursing school in Emporia and began a career as a registered nurse in 1953. Throughout her career, she cared for others in a variety of settings, including Stormont Vail Hospital and various private medical practices, where she was known for her dedication and steady presence. She also served as the troop nurse for the local Girl Scouts and as campus nurse at the College of Emporia, touching the lives of countless young people through her care and commitment to service.
It was in Emporia that she met the love of her life, Richard “Gordon” Ames, with whom she married on January 19th, 1952, in Eureka Springs, Arkansas and shared a devoted marriage of 69 years. She supported Gordon’s Santa Fe Railroad career by moving with him to Topeka, Kansas then to Fort Madison, Iowa and eventually back to Emporia. Gordon, their son Rodney, and a great-granddaughter, Gianna Francis, preceded her in death. Jackie looked forward with anticipation to the day she would be reunited with them.
Jackie and Gordon raised four children and spent time camping, boating, playing cards, bowling, and dancing together. At home, she found joy in sewing, knitting, crocheting afghans and gifts for family and friends, tending her garden, and serving as a faithful member of the Presbyterian Church. After retirement, she loved traveling the country with Gordon in their RV, creating treasured memories and enjoying adventures together wherever the road led.
She was an exceptional cook. Whether preparing a holiday meal or a simple weeknight dinner, Jackie expressed her love through food and the time she spent bringing family together around the table. Her home was a place where family and friends were welcome and cared for.
Jackie is survived by three children who loved her dearly: Steven Richard Ames of Topeka; Debra Lee (Ames) Cook and husband, Keith, of Scottsdale, Arizona; and Brenda Joanne (Ames) Cook and Ed Johnson of Columbia, Missouri. She also leaves behind a cherished legacy through her 13 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 1 greatgreat- grandchild. Jackie will be remembered for her strong spirit, devotion to family, and the work ethic she exhibited throughout her life. Through her example of love, service, and resilience, she touched countless lives and leaves behind a legacy that will continue for generations.
Memorial service to be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Emporia Presbyterian Church West Campus. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jackie’s honor to Emporia Friends of the Zoo via Charter Funerals.