Roll Call Tribute

Heather Nicole (Jehle) McMahill 

September 20, 1972 - July 11, 2024 

Heather Jehle McMahill, 51, of Westfield, New Jersey, passed away peacefully in the presence of loved ones on July 11, 2024.

Heather was born September 20, 1972 to doting parents, James and Evelyn Sue Jehle, who gave her an idyllic childhood and a younger sister, Ashley, who became her lifelong friend and confidante.

Growing up in an Air Force family, her early school years were spent on the move, residing in Ohio, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Alabama, Texas and Georgia. While each new location was met with anticipation and excitement, it also meant trading in the familiar for the uncertain, navigating unknown streets and cultivating new friendships - all building blocks in how she approached life with her strong and resilient nature. Heather graduated high school in Austin, Texas and attended Texas A&M University, where she was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma, graduating in 1995 with a degree in Marketing.

In 1999, Heather married her loving husband Mark McMahill on a beautiful spring day in Marietta, Georgia. Selfless devotion and shared values were the glue that held them together for over 25 years. They were blessed with two wonderful children, Lila and Rowan, with whom she treasured her time and watched them learn and grow into independent young adults. Like her, they were born with an open heart, hungry mind and an adventurous spirit.

Heather settled with her family in Westfield in 2008. In this quaint New Jersey suburb close to New York City, she quickly became steeped in the rich, bustling Northeast culture. She enjoyed the proximity to the Jersey shore as well as the changing seasons, especially autumn with its breathtaking colors.

Music was spiritual and uplifting to her. One of her favorite past times was attending organ concerts, wherever and whenever she could. Sitting in silence at a cathedral and immersing herself in the spine-tingling hum of the music was one of her greatest joys, calming her mind and stimulating deep inner feelings.

Her singing voice was a gift. As part of her Catholic faith, she was called to serve with her time and talent in music ministries for almost 30 years. One of her musical highlights was singing with her choir for Pope John Paul II at a Papal mass at the Vatican in Italy.

Heather was gentle, supportive and adventurous, cherishing new experiences, while taking time to reflect on herself and connect with others. She was a passionate advocate of holistic health practices for a balanced and healthy life. Her use and sharing of aromatherapy for emotional, mental and physical wellness was evidenced through a constant, fragrant ambrosia permeating throughout her home and leaving a lasting legacy for her friends and family.

Heather had amazing strength and determination. And when faced with adversity, she confronted it with awe-inspiring courage, grace and gratitude every step of the way. She dedicated her time to serving others, helping friends and spending time in meaningful conversation. When she spoke, her slight Southern drawl and warm smile had a way of slowing down time in a busy world, if only for a much needed moment.

In lieu of flowers, Heather requested that donations be made to the organ restoration fund at St. Michaels Church. Heather was a long time parishioner, choir member and cantor there. The organ is over 90 years old and in disrepair. Any checks or offerings in Heather's honor simply need to have a note attached or written in the memo on the check indicating "In memory of Heather McMahill - Organ Fund." Donations can be sent to: St. Michael's Roman Catholic Church, 40 Alden Street, Cranford, NJ. 07016.

It has been said that beautiful souls leave a trail of tears and smiles. While the tears will eventually dry, the smiles from knowing her will last a lifetime.

Survivors include her husband, Mark; daughter Lila; son Rowan; parents James and Evelyn Jehle; and sister Ashley (Jehle) Loehrer '96.