Colleen Jennings Obituary

Colleen Ann Jennings, a gifted soprano, devoted educator, and beloved friend, passed away on November 7, 2025, at Saint Joseph Hospital in Prum, Germany near Bitburg, Germany, where she had lived since December 2021. Her life was a symphony of compassion, artistry, and adventure.

Born to Mary Kathryn McNally (née Evans) and Terrance Clark McNally, Colleen grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, graduating from Dowling High School in May 1984. She pursued her passion for music with unwavering dedication, earning a Bachelor of Arts from St. Catherine University in 1989, a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from Drake University in 1996, and a Doctorate in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Iowa in 2014.

Colleen married the love of her life, Ernest Arthur Jennings, Jr., on September 5, 1998. Their 27-year marriage was a testament to enduring partnership and mutual respect. Though they had no children, Colleen was a devoted aunt to Katharine Poche, Merritt Little, Mason Little, and Mia Little, and a cherished sister to Erin (Robert) McNally-Poche and the late Megan (Jay) Little. She was preceded in death by her father, Terrance, and sister Megan.

Her career as a voice teacher and performer spanned continents and institutions. She served as a Voice Instructor with the Drake University Community of Music (1998-2005), a Graduate Teaching Assistant at the University of Iowa, taught classical voice at the School for Music Vocations at Southwestern Community College (2001-2008), Dowling Catholic High School (2001-2003), and Central College (2003-2008). She also worked at the University of Iowa from 2005 to 2008 and later taught at Mahidol University in Thailand beginning in October 2008. From August 2015 to May 2022, Colleen was an Assistant Professor at the University of Guam, where she continued to inspire students with her artistry and warmth. Most recently, she served as Center Operations Coordinator at the USO Spangdahlem Air Force Base from 2022 to 2025.

Colleen’s life was rich with travel and cultural immersion, having lived in Thailand, Guam and Germany. Wherever she went, she made lasting friendships across generations. Her warmth, generosity, and selflessness touched countless lives—she always thought of others before herself.

Colleen’s legacy lives on in the voices she nurtured, the hearts she lifted, and the memories she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, students, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Colleen's family will receive guests from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Iles Dunn's Chapel (2121 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA. 50312). A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at St. Augustin Catholic Church (545 42nd St. Des Moines, IA. 50312). Colleen will be laid to rest in Glendale Cemetery following services.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Colleen's name may be directed to Drake University Music Program, U of I Center for Advancement- Music Department, Dowling Music Department, or Cancer Society of Iowa.

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