Jeanne Bice, the creative force behind the Quacker Factory clothing line, was a beloved personality on QVC, known for her inspirational messages and dazzling designs. Her unexpected passing from uterine cancer deeply saddened her fans and colleagues. Bice's approach to life, marked by frankness and a belief in miracles, resonated with many.
A Wisconsin Original
Hailing from Wisconsin, Jeanne Bice's Midwestern roots were a part of her charm. She often shared stories of her life, from her childhood in Fond du Lac to her married years in Ripon, Wisconsin. Bice's home was known as a place of celebration, where everyone was welcome.
Building the Quacker Factory
After the difficult period of losing her husband and having little money, Bice demonstrated resilience. She "pulled herself up by her bra straps" and began again. She built a successful clothing business, Quacker Factory, based on the principles of joy and optimism. Her garments, known for their sequins, rhinestones, and festive themes, were designed to bring happiness to those who wore them.
A QVC Icon
Jeanne Bice's appearances on QVC were a highlight for many viewers. She loved everything about the network. From the executives to the production team, she appreciated everyone involved. Bice especially cherished the "Quackers," her loyal customers who became her friends. She valued their stories and connected with them on a personal level.
Doug Howe, QVC executive vice president merchandising, planning and sales, expressed the company's sorrow at her passing, acknowledging her as one of their most beloved personalities since her debut in 1995. The QVC hosts also voiced their sorrow about her passing.
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The "Believe" Philosophy
Bice's inspirational messages, particularly her encouragement to "believe in miracles," struck a chord with many. She often spoke of guardian angels and the power of positive thinking. Her optimistic outlook served as a counterpoint to cynicism and negativity.
Angel Smedley: Carrying on the Legacy
Following Jeanne Bice's death, Angel Smedley, a plus-sized model who often appeared on QVC in her place, stepped into a more prominent role with Quacker Factory.
From Model to the Face of Quacker Factory
Angel Smedley's journey with Quacker Factory began as a model. She occasionally filled in for Jeanne Bice. Smedley's dedication, including attending Quacker Factory's 10th-anniversary party in Florida, impressed Bice. This led to a close friendship and professional partnership. Smedley became Bice's makeup artist and later joined the design team.
Smedley's experience as an A/V Specialist and model helped prepare her for her role as the face of Quacker Factory. Her A/V background gave her an understanding of the behind-the-scenes aspects of television production. Her modeling experience honed her sense of style and familiarity with being in front of the camera.
Smedley reflects on Jeanne Bice's passing with a mix of sadness and respect. She acknowledges the weight of carrying on Bice's legacy and maintaining the "sisterhood" of Quacker Factory's customers.
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Honoring Jeanne's Vision
Angel Smedley is committed to staying true to Jeanne Bice's vision for Quacker Factory. This commitment includes maintaining the brand's signature whimsy, fun, embroidery, and sparkle and shine.
Smedley hopes to encourage those who are hesitant to try Quacker Factory to "take the plunge." She suggests starting with more understated pieces like the grommet T-shirt or the mini sequin top.
Personal Life
Outside of her work with Quacker Factory, Angel Smedley enjoys traveling, scrapbooking, and riding motorcycles.
Lessons from Mom
Angel Smedley credits her mother with teaching her to be confident in herself, regardless of her size. She encourages other plus-size women to embrace their confidence and turn it into a career, as she did.
The Broader Context: Obesity and Aging
While Jeanne Bice and Angel Smedley embraced body positivity, it's important to acknowledge the broader context of obesity and its health implications, particularly in aging populations.
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Sarcopenic Obesity in Older Adults
Sarcopenic obesity, the combination of obesity (BMI ≥30.0 kg/m2) and muscle loss, is a growing concern among older adults. This condition is associated with increased mortality risk compared to obesity alone.
Factors Influencing Sarcopenic Obesity
Research suggests that younger cohorts of older adults (e.g., baby boomers) may be at a higher risk of sarcopenic obesity. This increased risk may be related to the overall obesity epidemic and lifestyle factors.
Living alone is another factor that may influence the risk of sarcopenic obesity. Studies have explored potential links between living alone and unhealthy food consumption, poverty/food insecurity, less frequent exercise, and social isolation.
Research Findings
A study using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) examined the relationship between birth cohort, living alone, and sarcopenic obesity in older Americans. The findings indicated that the youngest cohort (born between 1948 and 1953) had greater odds of sarcopenic obesity than older cohorts (born before 1931). However, this increased risk was not significantly different from those born between 1931 and 1947.
Interestingly, the study found that younger women living alone tended not to have sarcopenic obesity compared to older cohorts living alone. This unexpected finding suggests that the relationship between living alone and sarcopenic obesity may be complex and influenced by other factors.
Implications
The findings highlight the importance of monitoring sarcopenic obesity in younger cohorts of older adults. These individuals may be at a higher risk due to the obesity epidemic and other lifestyle factors. Further research is needed to understand the complex relationship between living alone and sarcopenic obesity, particularly in younger cohorts.