Maurine Jarrett, a beloved figure from Cosby, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2025, at the age of 94, surrounded by her family. Known for her unwavering dedication to her family, her passion for music, and her commitment to her community, Jarrett’s life spanned nearly a century marked by love and service.
Born on October 25, 1930, to Edward and Edna (Bunse) Heinz, Maurine grew up on a farm near Cosby. She learned the value of hard work early, walking over a mile to attend the Prairie Valley one-room schoolhouse. Her formative years were spent balancing family responsibilities with her education and musical pursuits, including piano lessons, which she later taught to local children.
After graduating from Savannah High School in 1948, where she played clarinet in the marching band, she began her career working as a seamstress before advancing to an office position at Ely Walker in St. Joseph. In 1952, she married James (Jim) Jarrett, a Marine who had recently returned from service in the Korean War. Together, they purchased a farm east of Cosby, where they spent 63 years building a life filled with love and memories until Jim’s passing.
Jarrett cherished her role as a mother to two sons, James Jr. and Gary. She was known for her remarkable ability to discipline with love and patience, emphasizing the importance of family values. Her commitment to family extended to her growing extended family, with whom she shared countless experiences over the years.
Her strong faith was evident throughout her life. Initially attending the EUB (Evangelical United Brethren) church, now known as the Zion United Methodist Church, she later became a dedicated member of the Clarksdale Methodist Church. There, she served as the organist and pianist for nearly seven decades until the church closed in 2023. Following this, she became an active participant at Bethel Baptist Church near Cosby, where she continued to share her musical talents.
Maurine’s love for music was a constant thread in her life. For over 75 years, she played the piano or organ at churches, weddings, and community events. Her contributions to the local music scene included performing at The Abundant Acres nursing home and accompanying various singers, including her husband’s quartet. Notably, at the age of 92, she played a concert at Mosaic Hospital at the request of the hospital’s CEO, showcasing her enduring passion for music.
In addition to her musical endeavors, Jarrett had a successful career as a research technician at what is now Boehringer Ingelheim, where she contributed to the development of several animal vaccines over 21 years. She was also a charter member of the Friendly Twenty Club, engaging with her community for over 50 years.
Maurine is survived by her sons, James Jr. (Suzan) and Gary (Jill), along with several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family expressed gratitude to Freudenthal Hospice and the staff at The Abundant Acres for their compassionate care during her final days.
In her obituary, Maurine left a heartfelt message for her many friends and family, stating, “I loved them all very much.” Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched with her kindness, generosity, and warm spirit.
Private family services will be held at a later date. For those wishing to leave condolences or memories, an online guest book is available at www.meierhoffer.com.
