Birch, Jacquelyn "Jackie" (Wolf)

SCHENECTADY — Jacquelyn “Jackie” (Wolf) Birch, 80, passed away at home, Sunday, June 19, 2022. Jackie was born in New York City to the late John A. and Catherine Brennan Wolf and had lived in Niskayuna since 1981.

Jackie was a graduate of Mother Cabrini High School, Hunter College, Fordham University, and the University of Bridgeport, North Adams. She worked as an English teacher and guidance counselor at Rye Neck High School, Linton High School, Bethlehem and South Colonie High Schools. Subsequently, she was a district wide administrator, retiring from the South Colonie School District. Jackie was a communicant of St. Kateri Tekakwitha Church, Union St., Niskayuna, where she served as an usher for several years. She was a Proctors Guild president and member of the Sunnyview Hospital Auxiliary Board and longtime member of the Pinehaven Country Club. Jackie was the female lead in Iona College plays; received five acting awards from New York City and New York State; directed plays and musicals at Rye Neck High School in Mamaroneck, N.Y. In September of 1959, Jackie was named Honorary Deputy Mayor of New York City.

Jackie was predeceased by her husband, Tom Birch, who died in 1987; and two siblings, Robert Wolf and Cathy Glynn. She is survived by two nieces, Jessica (Andy) Curotto and Erin (Tim) Arendt; and a nephew, Arthur Wolf.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated, Wednesday, June 22, at 11 a.m. at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Church 1803 Union St., Niskayuna. A calling period from 9 until 10:15 a.m. at the Gleason Funeral Home will precede the Mass. Burial will be in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, 1270 Belmont Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12308 or to the charity of one’s choice.