Jacqueline “Jackie” Nielsen (Wood) Heap passed away on June 30, 2020 in Mesa, AZ, at the age of 88. She was born in Dayton, ID on July 17, 1931, the oldest daughter of Jonathan (Jack) & Rhea Wood. They preceded her in death along with her brother Jim and her oldest daughter Denise.
She was raised in Idaho, and spent her early childhood living on a farm in Clifton, ID; she, then, spent her teenage years living on a ranch in Letha, ID. It was in Idaho where she met the love of her life, Delbert Heap. They were married in 1950 and spent 70 wonderful years together. They lived in Idaho for the first 7 years of marriage; first running a farm, and later owning and operating a small grocery store. During their time in Idaho, two daughters joined their family. In 1957, they moved to Mesa, AZ and this is where they welcomed 2 more daughters to their family.
From an early age, Jackie worked hard to become an accomplished pianist. On the piano, she accompanied many choirs, vocal and instrumental soloists. She loved to fill her home with beautiful music. Her children grew up singing and dancing to the music from her piano. She passed her talent on by teaching children through lessons, including several granddaughters. In her youth, she learned to play the organ, accompanying the church congregation and the choir frequently throughout her life. As an adult, she taught herself to play the accordion. For over 20 years, she directed the songs in Primary, encouraging the young children to sing; many of the children called her “the music lady”.
She was a hardworking lady with many talents. She sewed clothes for her daughters, making many school dresses. She was a wonderful cook. She canned fruit, made delicious jam, and almost always made her own bread. She loved having a beautiful yard; she had a “green thumb” when it came to growing plants and flowers. She worked alongside her husband in maintaining several apartment complexes they owned: cleaning, painting, tiling, and fixing drapes. It was through this experience that she learned to re-upholster furniture. In addition to assisting in the property maintenance, she did all the bookkeeping for their businesses.
As a life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she generously gave of her time and talents. Serving in all aspects of music, Relief Society President, Primary President, Primary chorister, Primary teacher, as well as, ministering to many sisters in her ward.
She was well acquainted with her neighbors and dear friends. They all knew they could rely on her for friendship and help in times of need.
Her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren are the jewels in her crown. She was the happiest when she was with them, singing, playing, camping, storytelling, or just helping them. She was a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her dear sweet husband, Delbert, her 3 daughters: Cindy Apple (Rick Apple), Carla Weaver (David Weaver), and Janeen Ashcroft; 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her 3 brothers: Bruce, Linden, and Terry.
She holds a special place in all our hearts and will be missed in so many ways. Her memory and legacy will continue in the family she dearly loved and served.
Funeral Services will be Thursday, July 30, 2020 at the home of her granddaughter. Due to Covid-19 the funeral service will be for immediate family only.
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