Jermaine Virginia McGregor, aged 82, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025.

Jermaine was born on September 12th, 1942, in San Diego, California, to DeMerle E. Eckart Sr. and Marjorie "Maddy" Eckart. A proud graduate of Hutchinson High School, she went on to earn her bachelor's degree from Marshall University and later completed a master's in special education at the University of New Mexico.

Jermaine's life was guided by purpose, passion, and an unwavering commitment to justice. From a young age, she was drawn to service—volunteering in group homes and advocating for those whose voices often went unheard. Her visionary spirit earned her notoriety in Lexington, Kentucky, where she pioneered a first-of-its-kind Ombudsman Program to protect the rights and dignity of the elderly, especially those living in nursing homes. These efforts were not learned, they were innate. With effortless compassion and tireless creativity, she challenged the status quo and reimagined what care and advocacy could look like. Her legacy is one of courage, innovation, and boundless empathy, leaving an indelible mark on every life she touched.

Her career as a Special Education teacher took her to the Jicarilla Apache Nation, where she inspired students with her energy, empathy, and dedication. She later retired from the Cuba, New Mexico School District, but her passion for education and service never waned.

Jermaine was also a fierce advocate for animals. Whether it was a stray on the street or a horse in need of love, they always seemed to find her—and she welcomed them with open arms. Her love for horses endured throughout her life and brought her great joy and peace.

She was preceded in death by her beloved sister, Deborah Ann Eckart; her parents, DeMerle E. Eckart Sr., and Marjorie "Maddy" Eckart; and her brother, James Eckart.

Jermaine is survived by her former spouse, Robert McGregor; children: Cory Sanchez (former spouse Lori), James Sanchez (former spouse Kathleen), Zack Grey (former partners George, RJ, Tim), and Flower McGregor-Hulihan (former spouse Mark); her brother, DeMerle Eckart Jr. (spouse Gail); her grandchildren: Samantha Kata (spouse Martin), Michael Sanchez, Jason Sanchez, Laine Hulihan, Alec Hulihan, Matthew Hulihan, and Joseph Sanchez (spouse Luna); great-grandchildren: Francis Kata, Chloe Kata, and Rowan Sanchez; and her niece Shawna Berg (spouse Ryan).

A celebration of Jermaine's life and burial will take place at 11 a.m. on June 14, at Franklin Cemetery, 179–199 N 30th Rd, Tescott, Kansas 67484.

On Friday, June 13, those wishing to pay their respects may visit Wilson Funeral Home 405 Argyle Ave, Minneapolis, KS 67467.

Jermaine will be remembered for her radiant spirit, fearless advocacy, and boundless compassion. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched.

A celebration of Jermaine's life and burial will take place at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, June 14, at Franklin Cemetery, south of Tescott. On Friday, June 13, those wishing to pay their respects may visit Wilson Family Funeral Home 405 Argyle Ave., Minneapolis, KS 67467 between the hours of 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.

Jermaine will be remembered for her radiant spirit, fearless advocacy, and boundless compassion. Her legacy lives on in every life she touched.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jermaine's honor to Tamaya Horse Rescue: https://www.tamayahorserehab.com/howyoucanhelp.