Jacqueline Crouch

Jacqueline Jean Ball Crouch, 90, of Davenport, Iowa, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2021.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Quad Cities when we can all gather safely. In lieu of flowers, please honor Jackye’s memory by donating to the Quad City Animal Welfare Center. https://qcawc.org

Jackye was born in Elmhurst, Illinois, daughter of Herbert and Glenna (Mode) Ball on March 24 1930. She graduated from Blackburn College with a degree in English and Art. In 1953, she married Norman Crouch in Alton IL. They were active in the lives of their three children and enjoyed 60 years together..

Jackye began her teaching career in Pensacola, Florida, while Norm was serving in the Navy. She continued teaching in Wood River, IL prior to moving to Bettendorf in 1959. Jackye quickly realized she needed something to positively channel the energy of her children. She learned how to coach them, and eventually the neighborhood children in gymnastics.

She was key in developing the sport of Gymnastics in the Quad City area, eventually being the cofounder of Gymnastic Spectrum.

In her 90 years of life, she had many passions. As a teenager, she was known for her love of horses. Years of riding and training and eventually a camp counselor- teaching the campers to square dance on horseback!

Growing up in the Crouch house meant growing up with a dog. They were always a beloved part of the family.

Jackye’s love of animals included birds (some of which were rescued). Her special friends included a parrotlet, Merlin and a Meyer’s Parrot, Jewel.

Her green thumb served her well from outdoor gardening (hostas, irises, peonies, daylilies) and eventually a 2 story greenhouse for her award winning orchids.

She loved Christmas and was famous for her homemade shortbread! YUM!!

Jackye took charge of her passions. In addition to gymnastics, she served as president of the Illowa Orchid Society and the Quad City Parrot Society.

Preceded in death by her parents Herb and Glenna Ball and her husband Norman.

Survivors include daughters Caryn Crouch of Davenport, Merry Crouch (Roberta Hermann) of O’Fallon IL, son Terry (Debbie) Crouch of Bettendorf, sister Beverly Hamilton and brother Donald Ball.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Genesis Hospice, particularly her nurse, Maggie.

Condolences may be shared at CremationQC.com.