Jacqualyn S. "Cookie" Black

Jacqualyn Sue "Cookie" Black (née Adams), a beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted member of her community, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, in Columbia, Missouri. She was 81 years old.

Born on December 28, 1944, in Fredonia, Kansas, to Albert and Esther Adams, Jacqualyn grew up with a strong sense of faith and family values that would guide her throughout her life. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Pittsburg State University and went on to dedicate her career to nurturing young minds as an elementary school teacher. Later in life, she applied her organizational skills as a bookkeeper for Frontier Bag, Inc.

Jacqualyn’s life was enriched by her deep devotion to her family and faith. She was the cherished mother of Bill Zellmer, Brad Zellmer, and Dave Zellmer; stepmother to Kindra Booker and Jimmy Black III; and proud grandmother to Justin Booker, Brittany Kneemiller, Riannon Zellmer, Brandon Black, Deanndra Zellmer, Amber Wright, Zachary Zellmer, Kaitlin Black, and Madeline Zellmer. Her love for her family was boundless and unwavering.

She was predeceased by her husband, Jimmy Black II; her parents; her brother Larry Adams; and her stepdaughter Christine Wright. Despite these losses, Jacqualyn remained steadfast in her faith and found solace in the love of those around her.

An active member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Jacqualyn lived out her faith through service and fellowship. She participated in Marriage Encounter programs alongside her late husband Jimmy and found joy in connecting with others through shared spiritual growth. Her hobbies included cross-stitching intricate designs that reflected her creativity and patience. A lifelong fan of the Kansas City Royals, she delighted in cheering for her favorite team.

Jacqualyn will be remembered for her kind heart, strong faith, and dedication to those she loved. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched as a teacher, friend, and family member.

May Jacqualyn Sue "Cookie" Black’s memory bring comfort to all who knew her. A Memorial Service will be held on June 4, 2026, at 12:00 PM and a Visitation from 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM at Holy Cross Lutheran Church 7851 W 119th St. Overland Park, KS.

In lieu of flowers, charitable donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association .