Jermaine Virginia McGregor, aged 82, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025. Jermaine was born 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 lived a life full of purpose and passion. She constantly sought creative ways to improve the world—always thinking outside the box and never hesitating to challenge the status quo. From a young age, she was drawn to service: volunteering in group homes and later pioneering a first-of-its-kind Ombudsman Program in Lexington, Kentucky. Her lifelong commitment to justice, education, and compassion left an indelible mark on countless lives.
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 Sanchez), James Sanchez (former spouse Kathleen), Zack Grey, 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 11:00 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