
Jessica Leigh (Gagnon) Knapp passed away on February 29, 2024 in Hartford, Connecticut.
Jessica is survived by her daughter, Lauren Knapp; her two grandchildren, Calliope Lopez and Mateo Lopez; her sister, Anna Clement and her husband, Dean Clement; her sister, Carrie Surujnauth; as well as aunts, an uncle, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
She was predeceased by her daughter, Rachael (Knapp) Lopez, her ex-husband, Thomas Knapp; her mother, Anna (Stolfi) Gagnon; her father, Frederick Gagnon; her maternal grandparents, Margaretta (Bowes) Stolfi and Joseph Stolfi; and her paternal grandparents, Helen (Cleary) Gagnon and Rock Gagnon.
Jessica was born on April 5, 1971 in Waterbury, CT. She grew up in the towns of Naugatuck, Woodbury, and Bethlehem. During her family’s time in Woodbury, they raised farm animals (along with other pets) and participated in Litchfield County 4H competitions, where they would showcase their pigs. Her favorite pig was named Nola. She enjoyed playing softball, as a pitcher, throughout her childhood and teen years. In 1989, she graduated from Nonnewaug High School. She earned her associate’s degree at Naugatuck Valley Community-Technical College in 1995. She gave birth to her first child, Rachael, on December 8, 1995. Her second child, Lauren, was born on December 1, 1998. Jessica loved her children immensely and they loved her just as much. She was dedicated to creating the best life that she could for herself and her children. She earned her bachelor's degree at Western Connecticut State University in 2002. In 2003, she moved to South Carolina with her family. She worked as a special education teacher and made a positive impact on the lives of many children. She and her children eventually moved back to CT in 2011. Jessica first became a grandmother in 2016 and again in 2018. Her grandchildren, Calliope (Callie) and Mateo, brought her an immeasurable amount of joy. She loved them with all of her heart. Jessica passed away peacefully at Hartford Hospital on Februrary 29, 2024. Her daughter, Lauren, was by her side.
Jessica will be loved and missed dearly.
Her ashes will be entombed and a private service will take place at Mt. Olivet in Watertown at the family’s convenience.
She was my former teacher at Aynor high school. She was one of the best teachers I will ever know. She was special with her students. Fly with the angels
I am so very sorry for your loss ❤️ Cousin Jessica was taken from her family much too soon but it’s comforting to know that she is at peace and in the arms of her loving parents in Heaven ❤️
My deepest condolences to her family. She was very devoted to her children and grandchildren and her love will forever be in your hearts ❤️
All my love,
Cousin Shelly
Jessica sounds like an amazing person. The world is a better place for what she gave of herself. My mother also died on leap year, so this day will always be heart felt. My wife Peggy and I offer our deepest regrets to her family and loved ones.
My heart felt condolences to Mrs. Knapp's family. Please, find comfort in the wonderfully warm memories of your dear loved one. God bless you all. -Ms. Green, Troup School FRC