Jacqueline Martha Pringle Gendell

Jacqueline Martha Pringle Gendell, a trailblazing psychiatrist and cherished mother, passed away unexpectedly during heart surgery on Friday, April 26, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Jacqueline was the proud daughter of John Stuart Pringle and Mary Agnes McEvoy Pringle, sister to Mary Lou Dickerson, Linda Rudzinski, Cynthia Defilippo, and her deeply loved brother, John Pringle.

Jacqueline’s academic and professional journey was remarkable. She graduated summa cum laude from Temple Medical School, embarking on a career in psychiatry at a time when few women entered the field. Despite personal challenges, Jacqueline’s resilience led to a reconnection with her family and a renewed dedication to her health after her heart diagnosis.

She was married to her late husband, Dr. Howard Gendell, and was previously married to Fred Harris, father of her beloved children, Beth Lauren Gibson, Alexandra Mary Harris, and Maximilian John Harris. In her final years, Jacqueline cherished reconnecting with her children and her six grandchildren: Noah, Nathan, and Julia Gibson; Ari and Adam Harris; and Jesse Harris.

A devout Catholic and lover of the arts, Jacqueline was passionate about literature, especially British cozy mysteries, and was an accomplished pianist with a deep appreciation for Jazz. Her support for local arts and the mission of the Little Sisters of the Poor was a reflection of her generous spirit. Her culinary skills, highlighted by her childhood cooking competition win with “Mother’s Helper Chicken,” remained a cherished family tradition.

Jacqueline’s love for animals was evident in the joy she found taking care of her family pets. She was a generous soul, donating to her church and various charitable causes, embodying the spirit of her favorite, St. Jude, the saint of hopeless causes.

Friends will be received  at John A. Freyvogel Sons, Inc. (freyvogelfuneralhome.com) 4900 Centre Avenue at Devonshire Street on Wednesday from 2-4p.m. and 6-8p.m. Funeral Thursday, Mass of Christian Burial, St. Paul Cathedral 10 a.m. Flowers are welcomed.

Jacqueline’s life was a testament to her strength, love, and commitment to her family and community. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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