COLUMBUS
Jackie D. Arnett, a beacon of creativity and courage, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2025, in Columbus, Indiana. Born on December 1, 1961, in Louisiana, Jackie’s zest for life and her unwavering spirit touched all who knew her. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend.
Jackie’s life was one of service and dedication. A proud veteran, she served in the U.S. Air Force for 12 years, a testament to her courage and commitment to her country. Her work ethic and the bonds she formed during her service remained a significant part of her identity throughout her life.
In the heart of her personal life was her family. Jackie married Grant Lee Arnett on August 31, 1996. She was a devoted mother to her son, Jason Giusto, and his wife, Lauren Anderson, and a doting grandmother to Jackson Giusto. Jackie’s legacy continues through her brothers, James, David, and Danny Ferguson, and her sisters, Marlene Nobles and LeeAnn Kachur, who will miss her dearly.
Jackie’s interests in crafts and canning were more than hobbies; they were expressions of her creative soul, bringing beauty and warmth to the world around her.
Those who knew Jackie would describe her as a woman of boundless creativity and courage. She faced life’s adversities with a brave heart and always found a way to infuse her days with joy and artistry. As Helen Keller once said, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” Jackie lived by these words, embracing each day as an opportunity for a new adventure.
A funeral service celebrating Jackie’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at the Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home with Pastor Damon Spurgeon officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services. She will be entombed in Garland Brook Cemetery Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Gideon’s International, “The Jesus Film Project” (www.jesusfilm.org), or to the Youth Ministry at First Church of the Nazarene all through the funeral home.
Jackie’s life was a tapestry of love, service, and creativity. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of those she left behind. Her spirit, a guiding light, will continue to inspire courage and creativity in all who were fortunate enough to have been touched by her life.
You are invited to leave a message for the family via the internet.
www.jewellrittman.com
