Jessica Elizabeth McKenna

Jessica was born in Victoria BC. She would move to Hornby Island BC, at the age of 4, in early 1999.

Jessica attended school on Hornby Island from preschool through to Grade seven. She developed a very close relationship with Carlyn Bishop, the two girls becoming like two adjacent peas in a pod. They went and did everything together. They were a delightful pair and brought joy and laughter to everyone they encountered. Jessica later attended Lake Trail School.

Jessica had a smile and a personality that would light up any room she entered. Her eyes expressed completely, her feelings and her joie de vives. On Hornby Island, she would spend a lot of time with her grandparents, Frances and Garth Millan (Papa and Granny). At the time she was the youngest of three daughters, and relished the opportunity to have some alone time.

Jessica would closely watch adults at work or chores, and was quick to learn. A story her Grandpa Millan (Papa) would often tell was when she was 5 years old. She was spending the night with Papa and Granny. She had awakened early, and had busied herself gathering the ingredients for pancakes. When “Papa” came downstairs, she was sitting at the kitchen island with all of the ingredients neatly arranged on the counter, including mixing bowls and spoons. She had this beautiful smile on her face and a very proud expression. Her eyes conveyed her message “Guess what we are having for breakfast?”

Amanda would meet Bob Nixon, who would become the “Dad” that Jessica had so longed for. They had a very special bond. Amanda and Bob would add another sister, Emma, to the household. Emma was born two days before Jessica’s 11th birthday. Emma was Jessica’s 11th birthday present, because she arrived home on Jessica’s birthday.

Jessica had a very difficult time through her teenage and early adult years. She struggled with addiction and traumatic relationships. At 22 years of age, she would meet Joseph White. They had a son, Christian. When her son, Christian, was born, Jessica worked very hard to remain “clean” and to provide a good home for him. Christian is exceptionally bright and would keep Jessica on her toes. Jessica would focus all of her energy on raising and teaching Christian. Christian was everything to Jessica. She loved her son so very deeply.

Jessica’s relationship with Christian’s father, pushed her into isolation and depression. Sadly, the evil drugs would be re-introduced to Jessica. This time, the chemicals would take a strong hold from which she would never recover. Christian would be placed in foster care and Jessica spiralled downward and would eventually, lose her life. To the end, Jessica fought hard to regain control and be able to reunite with her son.

Jessica leaves behind a host of family and childhood friends who are devastated by her death. Her Mother, Amanda and her Dad, Bob Nixon. Her older sister Brittany and her younger sister, Emma. She was pre-deceased by her oldest sister, Ashleigh. Ashleigh’s daughter, Lola, remains in Amanda and Bob’s care. Lola will miss Jessica and vividly recalls her time spent with Jessica and Christian.

The close family will mourn the unnecessary and tragic death of Jessica Elizabeth McKenna in a closed service at Piercy’s – Mount Washington Funeral home on Wednesday July 20th. She will be missed so very much. A memorial will be planned in the near future for friends and extended family to have an opportunity to share their grief.