Tracie Lynn Jarrell

Tracie Lynn Jarrell, a beloved mother and treasured friend, passed peacefully on July 1, 2025, at the age of 40. Born on March 17, 1985, to Gerald Westgerdes and Linda Kay Gehm. A true 4-leaf clover, Tracie carried a full-of-life personality and the appropriate shade of lip gloss. She was a friend of many and a sibling to many more.  Even as an only child, she longed for siblings and ultimately found joy in discovering a close-knit support system among those who embraced her as family.

For 17 years, Tracie dedicated herself to serving the State of Indiana, working at the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles, the Indiana Department of Revenue, and the Indiana Office of Technology. As an accomplished IT Project Manager, she held Project Management Professional and Scrum Master Certifications, using her skills to lead projects with sound strategy. Her time at Varsity Brands was particularly noteworthy, as it was a place where her team and company went above and beyond to support her during a diagnosis of lung cancer.

A member of Holy Name Catholic Church for over 15 years, Tracie’s faith played an integral role in her life. Her talents shone through in her passion for cross-stitching, crafting beautiful Christmas stockings for her children and extended family members.

Though Tracie’s physical presence is no longer here, her spirit remains alive in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her. As family and friends gather to remember her, they will forever say, “Tracie is…” carrying forward the memories that will continue to inspire and uplift them.

Tracie was not just a dedicated professional; she was also a devoted mother to Alivia Rae, 14 and Carter Knox, 6. She embraced her role with the enthusiasm of a true “Pinterest mom,” creating elaborate “Elf on a Shelf” scenes that enchanted her children creating a magical childhood. Her love for her kids was fierce and unwavering, often sprinkled with a touch of Harry Potter magic, which filled their home with wonder and imagination.

Tracie is preceded in death by Anthony Jarrell (husband), Lester Gehm (maternal grandpa), Blanch Gehm (maternal grandma), Janet Gehm (maternal aunt), Bruce Gehm (maternal uncle), Norbert Westgerdes (paternal grandfather) and Mildred Vagades Westgerdes (paternal grandmother), Ron Westgerdes (paternal uncle), Ken Westgerdes and his wife Brenda (paternal uncle and wife), Jo Westgerdes (paternal aunt), Larry Parker (uncle and husband of Marilyn Westgerdes (living aunt).

A piece of her heart will remain with her children, Alivia Rae, and Carter Knox, as well as her many friends and extended family.

Please join us on July 18th at 11am at Holy Name Parish as we hold space to remember her and celebrate her life.

Please visit www.orileybranson.com to leave a memory of Tracie or to sign our online guest book.