In Loving Memory of Jessica “Jess” De La Cruz

Jess was a daughter and a sister first. Her family was everything to her. She worked constantly, often juggling multiple jobs, because she cared deeply about showing up, helping out, and making sure the people she loved were taken care of. That was just who she was. Jess had a huge heart, and she lived it out loud through action, not words.

She was also a musician, and for so many of us, that’s how we knew her best. Music was how Jess connected, how she collaborated, and she allowed people to truly see her. She poured herself into the music, and she found a chosen family who loved her fiercely. Jess showed up. For her family. For her friends. For her music. She showed up even when she was tired. She showed up even when it was hard. That kind of presence leaves a mark.

Just after midnight on Sunday, January 18, 2026, Jess was struck by a vehicle while walking near the intersection of Giddings Street and Howard Avenue in Visalia. The driver fled the scene. Jess was taken by ambulance to Kaweah Health, where she passed away from her injuries.

Trying to put Jess into words feels impossible. Her loss is being felt far and wide. The silence she leaves behind is heavy. The love she gave is still echoing.

This GoFundMe was created to support her family during this devastating time. All funds raised will go directly toward funeral and burial expenses and helping her family through the days ahead.

Thank you for loving Jess, for holding her family close, and for honoring a life that mattered so deeply. If you knew Jess, we invite you to share a memory, a song, or a few words below. Her family will read them when they’re ready.