Mercedes Ann (Henry) Jamka

Mercedes Ann (Henry) Jamka, age 89, passed away peacefully on September 29, 2026, in Woodstock, IL. She was born on May 18, 1937, in Chicago, IL to John and Loretta (Kelly) Henry.

Mercedes had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a profound respect for the beauty of the natural world. As an Adrian Dominican Sister, she pursued her passion for science and nature at Siena Heights University in Michigan, where she earned a bachelor's degree in science education. She later continued her studies at Colgate University in New York, receiving a Master of Arts in science education. Mercedes brought her enthusiasm for the natural sciences into the classroom, inspiring students as a science teacher at Aquinas Dominican High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and later teaching junior high students in Sharon, Wisconsin. Through her teaching, she fostered curiosity, discovery, and a lifelong appreciation for the world around them.

An avid traveler and lifelong adventurer, Mercedes explored every corner of the globe, enriching her own understanding of the world and eagerly sharing those experiences with her family, friends, and students. Her passion for discovery extended beyond the classroom; in 1991, she volunteered with the Black Hills Institute on the historic excavation of “Sue,” the famed Tyrannosaurus rex fossil. Even in her final years, Mercedes remained committed to inspiring future generations. One of her last acts of educational stewardship was donating her treasured collection of fossils and rocks to the Geology Department at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, ensuring that her love of science and learning would continue to spark curiosity for years to come

Mercedes is survived by her children, Loriann (Patrick) Duffy and Gregory (Andrea) Jamka; her four grandchildren: John Duffy, Joe Duffy, King Hutton, and Alysee Yousfi; and her brother and sister-in-law Don and Sue Wacyk.

Mercedes was preceded in death by her husband, John Jamka; her parents, John and Loretta Henry; her sister, Mary Virginia Estabrook; and her brother-in-law, Graydon Estabrook.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to McHenry County Audubon Society.

Saunders & McFarlin Funeral Home of Woodstock is honored to serve the Jamka family.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.