Jennifer Secker

Jennifer Wells Secker

January 7, 1942 - March 24, 2026

Sedona, Arizona

Jennifer Sue Secker, of Sedona, Arizona, formerly of Rogers, Arkansas, passed away at home on March 24th, 2026.

Jennifer, "Jenny," was born in St. Louis, MO, January 7th, 1942 to Dorothy and William (Bill) Wells. She grew up in Hannibal, MO with her brother Warren and sister Julie. After graduating from Hannibal Senior High, Jennifer studied at Hannibal-LaGrange University, then earned a degree in Education from Truman State University, Kirksville, MO. Following memorable teaching experiences in Chillicothe, & La Plata, MO, she taught at Parkway Central High School, in St. Louis, MO for 17 yrs. Jennifer was married to Nicholas Katsaras, of St. Louis, MO from 1964-1991. During this time, while raising two children, she worked, and achieved her Masters Degree in English Literature from Webster University. She also became a Certified Reading Specialist, to assist challenged students. She lived her entire life with tremendous grace, dignity, and service to others.

Jennifer married James "Jim" Secker of Hannibal, MO on July 19, 1997. Jennifer continued her commitment teaching high school English, in Rogers AR, where they enjoyed living into their retirement years. In 2025, they relocated permanently to their winter home, in Sedona, AZ. 

Jennifer's infectious positive attitude touched so many lives- young and old. The way she loved and cared for Jim, all their children and grandchildren- was undeniable and beautiful to observe. Her amazing sense of humor and timing were always spot on. Jennifer was a shining mentor and a cancer survivor. She'll forever be remembered for sharing her wisdom and compassion with all of her family, friends, and church. Her unconditional kindness, devotion to reading, and her love of teaching, gardening, art and music was cherished by everyone. She was trying to heal from the sudden loss of her husband on Dec. 27, 2025. After a brief time on Northern Arizona Hospice... She joined Jim again. 

Jennifer is survived by her brother Warren (Mary) Wells, and sister Julie (Lloyd) Stewart, her children Chris Katsaras (Becky) and Julie Davis (Gary); and Jim's children: Elizabeth Goldasich (Matt), Eric Secker, and Matt Secker (Lottie); her nine grandchildren: Nicholas Katsaras, Bradley, Michael & Matthew Goldasich, Will Secker, Annie Secker King (Spencer), Catie Grace, Madeline & Caleb Secker. She was preceded in death by her parents Bill/Dorothy Wells, and her husband James "Jim" Secker.

A private remembrance service will be held for both on April 25, 2026 at their home. In lieu of flowers, please contribute a donation in Jennifer's memory, to either Rogers Public Library, or the Sedona Humane Society.

Thank you to their family and friends for all of your loving support.