Jewel Arlene Hjerling

Jewel Arlene Hjerling passed away peacefully, with her beloved family by her side, on July 4th, 2024. Born to Grace and Ernst Baisch on November 1st, 1948 in Lancaster, she was considered the “Godmother” by her large extended family, whom she dearly loved. Jewel’s kitchen table was the best place for family, friends, and neighbors to laugh, tell stories, gossip, play board games and cards, and poke fun of each other. You could be sure that she had a Pepsi in hand. 

Jewel was the devoted mom to her only son Rob (Kate) and she adored being a Grammy to Seamus, Liam, and Fintan. Jewel lived with her sister Linda and helped raise her children Becky and Julie. She never missed an opportunity to spend time with family, the more the better. We’re so grateful for our last outing together at the annual Father’s Day picnic with family and friends. 

Jewel is survived by her siblings Bill, Mary, Brenda (Dave Johnston), and Ernie (Janet). She shares her angel wings with her brother John and sisters Ruth, Catherine, Carol (Mike Rineer) and Linda. 

Jewel graduated from McCaskey in 1966 and earned her associate’s degree at Penn State University. Starting as a high school student, she worked at Lancaster General Hospital in different roles, retiring in 2004 after 36 years as a certified Dietary Technician. She left an indelible mark on those who worked under her fair and kind supervision. She went on to work at Finch Jewelers before moving to South Carolina in November of 2007, to be with her son’s growing family. 

Jewel was supremely organized, was a master of card games, scrabble, and crossword puzzles. She created gorgeous scrapbooks and was a meticulous recipe follower. Her chicken corn soup and macaroni and cheese were her grandkids’ favorites. She enjoyed Christmas cookie baking. Jewel also enjoyed taking trips to the casino, getting together with friends, and shopping. She found joy in attending her grandsons’ wrestling matches, soccer games, and other events. She was a member of The New Apostolic Church for 64 years and was baptized June 5th, 1960.

Jewel’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by her large family and church communities, all of whom are better for her presence in their lives. 

The family will be honoring Jewel’s life at the New Apostolic Church located at 2425 Spring Valley Road Lancaster Pennsylvania on Saturday July 13th, 2024, visitation at 10:00am to 11:00am and the service to begin at 11:00am.

In lieu of the “Love on Jewel Luau,” a memorial celebration will take place at East Lampeter Community Park, 2330 Hobson Road, Lancaster, PA 17602 from 3pm to 6pm. Family and friends are welcome.