Beloved matriarch, Jeanette Luedde, nee Merz, entered into rest peacefully at home on Tuesday March 10, 2026, at the age of 87. Devoted mother of surviving Linda (Ron) Malin, the late Michael (Yvette) Luedde, the late Cynthia (Jack) Huelskamp, surviving Jaqueline (David) Chronister, surviving Perry (Ruth) Luedde, the late Gerald “Baby Gerry” Luedde, and surviving Christine (Paul) Flam; cherished grandmother of 11; blessed great-grandmother of six, with a seventh on the way; dear sister of the late Robert “Shutters" Merz, the late Shirley Kuhn, nee Merz, the late Clarence Merz, the late Marilyn Kaelin, nee Merz, and the late Richard Merz; and precious daughter of the late Valentine and Rose, nee LeGrand, Merz. Jeanette is also survived by many other dear relatives and friends.

Jeanette was born, bringing in the beauty of St. Louis May in 1938, a welcome penultimate addition to the Merz family. An alumna of Bishop DuBourg High School, Jeanette's early years were spent nurturing a boundless curiosity and an insatiable love for reading. She possessed an extraordinary ability to immerse herself in the written word, often seen with a collection of books tucked away in her bags, ready to explore ideas in both fiction and non-fiction. Her friends and family often marveled at her gift for storytelling, weaving tales filled with warmth and laughter.

Jeanette was more than just an avid reader; she was a master farceur who turned everyday moments into joyful memories. With a penchant for humor, she brought joy to those around her, cracking jokes and enchanting everyone fortunate enough to meet her. Her laughter was a balm for the soul, often serving as a reminder of the lighter side of life.

Above all, Jeanette cherished her roles as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her love extended through generations, creating an enduring legacy that will be treasured by all who knew her. Jeanette also held the esteemed title of “the best mother-in-law,” a testament to her nurturing soul and welcoming embrace.

Jeanette will be greatly missed, and we mourn our loss, but we celebrate that her fulfilling life and that she is at peace.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Humane Society of Missouri in Jeanette’s honor.

Respectfully, Jeanette’s memorial services are private.