General Information
Full Name: Jacqueline Maya Kletsman
Date of Death: Friday, January 30, 2026
Jacqueline Maya Kletsman, 20 years old, left us far too soon on Friday, January 30, 2026, creating an immeasurable void in the lives of all who knew and loved her.
Jackie was pure light. She lived with enthusiasm, a passion for life, and a deep appreciation for beauty in all its forms. An avid traveler with a natural sense of style, she embraced life with joy and curiosity. She loved discovering new places, cultures, flavors, and experiences, always with a smile that could brighten any room. Jackie truly loved and lived life to its fullest.
Family was her foundation, and the bond she shared with them shaped who she was. She also treasured an extraordinary group of close friends and nurtured friendships that were loyal, genuine, and filled with laughter. Her absence is felt deeply by her family, her friends, and by all those fortunate enough to have known her.
She is survived by her mother Elaine, her father Yuri, her younger sister Lola, and her loving grandparents, all of whom will never be the same without her.
Jackie’s warmth, laughter, and love for life will be remembered always. Her spirit will continue to live on in the countless memories she created with family and friends.
Contributions in Jackie’s memory may be made to the following nonprofit organizations:
Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) – https://www.foodallergy.org/donate
Kids with Food Allergies (a division of AAFA) – https://kidswithfoodallergies.org/get-involved/give-donate/
Pony Power Therapies – https://secure.givelively.org/donate/pony-power-therapies-inc/honor-or-remember-a-loved-one
To honor Jackie’s memory and light she brought to others, the Jacqueline M. Kletsman Memorial Scholarship has been established. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a graduating Cresskill High School senior. Those wishing to honor Jackie’s life may contribute to the scholarship by sending a check made out to Cresskill Board of Education. The check can be mailed to Cresskill High School, Attn: Kristin O’ Connell, 1 LIncoln Drive, Cresskill, NJ 07626. Donors will receive a tax ID.
Service Information
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
11:00 AM
Service At:
Temple Emanu-El of Closter
180 Piermont Road, Closter, NJ 07624
Burial to follow at:
Cedar Park and Beth El Cemeteries
735 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652
Immediately following the burial, Shiva will be observed back at Temple Emanu-El of Closter.
The temple will be available to family and guests until 8:00 PM, with prayers at 7:00 PM.
I had a class with Jackie and I never got the chance to talk to her but always remembered her. Cheetah print sweater, glasses, pony tail. She was so outgoing and full of energy, always volunteering in class when we were all too anxious to raise our hands.
It’s hard to comprehend where the soul goes when someone is so energetic and full of life. Energy never really goes away, and her essence and energy is always around. May she rest in peace, and surround her family with her light and spirit in ways that transcend the physical world. She’s alway going to be here.
I’m so sorry for your family, and especially to Jackie’s sister. I cannot imagine losing my sister, and I have so much respect for the strength she has to carry Jackie’s spirit on with her.
May God Bless you all in this difficult time and bring happiness into your lives where and when you need it most.
Comment *Hearts are broken! Rest in peace beautiful child!
Yuri, my heart, saddened by this news, goes out to you and your family. I can only think back to teenage years for you and Todd, and how kind your parents were, taking him to Mexico. This is such a terrible tragedy and we can only hope that the wonderful memories you have will carry you through.. so much sadness, Carol and Jeff Hyman
I spent a summer with Jackie in NYC. The impact she made on me I will never forget. I did that’s summer knowing no one and being scared. She made such a big impact on my life, teaching me nothing is as deep as it seems. I will forever be grateful for the impact she had on me, she thought to be nothing but myself. I love you forever. I love you Jackie.
The loss of such brightness will be felt for generations.
I was her school nurse at Cresskill High School and always remember her bright smile, exuberance and gentleness.
She could always light up a room and was loved by her classmates and faculty.
Rest in Peace dear one.
Jackie’s pure incredible light, love, beauty, kindness, open-heartedness will stay with us forever. No words can describe the enormity of this loss. The memories of the time with her will be treasured. And her memory will be a blessing.
Thank you for everything, I truly would not be who I was without you.