Jessica Wood Memorial

I still remember the night Jessica was born like it was yesterday. It was the day after Christmas and I was all alone at the hospital; my sister Kathy was in a different state and the rest of my family had their issues, so I was all alone giving birth at 16 years old. The doctor handed me that tiny baby and my whole world suddenly stood still. I knew life would be hard as a single teenage mother, but once I held that innocent baby all my worries disappeared and she became the most important thing. Everyone had left the room and it was just the two of us, she was the best Christmas present I have ever received. From her first breath, Jessica had to be strong, she was born with hip dysplasia and spent most of her first year of life in a body cast. Before Jessica’s first birthday she had undergone surgery in an attempt to correct her hip dysplasia, and received 18 additional surgeries throughout her life until finally having her hip replaced. Even though Jessica had dealt with more struggles than any child should bare at a young age, she was so smart and was able to read before she was in kindergarten. I remember her reading a book to her own kindergarten class at story time. Despite the constant pain, Jessica had a great sense of humor and enjoyed laughing and being with her friends and family. She was a talented artist who loved to draw. She created many beautiful pieces that I will forever cherish. Jessica loved all different genres of music, and enjoyed attending shows where her boyfriend’s band would perform. Jared and Jessica were together for 10 years and had planned a future together. After Jared was diagnosed with a terminal disease Jessica stood by his side and cared for him as it progressed throughout the last year of his life. During that time, Jessica was stronger than she ever had been before and even stronger than  she thought she could be. Jared passed away almost two years ago but I feel Jessica never truly got over losing him. Jessica had fought with depression, anxiety, and chronic pain for most of her life, but after Jared passed I don’t think she had much strength left to fight for herself.  The pain had become so unbearable, she found a way to mask it. Addiction had consumed her and within 4 months, I had lost my only daughter. It all happened so unbelievably fast,  it’s still so hard to comprehend that she is really gone.

I don’t know how to say goodbye to you Jessica, but I take comfort in knowing you are finally pain free and are with Jared again. Until we meet again my beautiful Christmas angel.


Another angel has been lost to the battle of addiction. This situation is never truly planned for, especially when it happens this sudden. Donations are greatly appreciated to help with the cost of funeral expenses to lay Jessica to rest the way she deserves. Please keep Jessica and our family in your prayers during this tragic time.

Jessica Wood’s Obituary and Service Details