Jill E. Tesell, 68, of Grafton, MA passed away on January 3,2026, at UMass Memorial Hospital in Worcester, MA after a long illness. Jill was born in Worcester, daughter of the late, Vincent Tesell and Agnes (Pierce) Tesell Riley.
Nordgren Memorial Chapel assisted the family with the cremation. There will not be a viewing. A prayer service is being arranged per Jills request at a later date.
Jill is survived by her sister Robin Thorenson (Tesell), husband Ronald Kollross, of Grafton, John “Jack” and Debbie Tesell, of Webster, her late sister Candace “Candy” (Tesell) Booth Langevin. formerly from Grafton, MA and later Florida, several nieces, nephews and great nephews and nieces. She also leaves part of her heart with Emily Ann Tesell her little dog and constant companion for the last 13 years.
Jill attended Holy Name High School and Quinsigamond Community College for Human Services/Social Services, studied, and received AAS Degree, Drug & Alcohol Abuse. Jill worked at Memorial Hospital, UMass Hospital, JC Penny’s and Astra Zeneca Pharmaceuticals.
Jill loved and supported many animal rescues. She loved gardening and spent every moment she could taking care of the gardens. She loved going to Ireland and made some good friends there. They are very kind people and took good care of her. Since she loved Ireland so much even as a child her family will have her ashes spread there along with her dog Jamie’s ashes. Jill referred to this as going home.
Jill was fortunate to have many faithful friends. Her family would like to thank all these special people. A very special thanks goes out to Joan Cardin and Mark Farrell for helping her with everyday challenges when no one else could.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or if you see a disabled person help them if you can and make a difference in their life.
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