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 has been arranged per Jill's request- please see below.
Jill is survived by her sister Robin Thorenson (Tesell) and husband Ronald Kollross, of Grafton, her brother John “Jack” Tesell and his wife Debra Tesell of Webster, 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. She was predeceased by a sister Candace "Candy" (Tesell) Booth Langevin formerly of Grafton and Florida.
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.
To leave an online condolence message, please click guestbook link.
Mass Services to be held 10:30 am on Tuesday Feb 10th
St. James Church
89 Main St
S. Grafton Ma 01569
Memorial Luncheon to be held at 12 pm
Calabria Ristorante
7 South Main St.
Millbury MA 01527