Jessica Ann Smith

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Jessica Ann Smith, beloved mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend. She left this world in a peaceful state, surrounded by her family, on September 9, 2025.

Born on August 4, 1987, Jess lived her life with warmth, strength, determination, and an unshakable devotion to her family. She was the cherished wife of C.J. Smith, and the proud, loving mother of three beautiful children: Jack, Marigold, and June, who were her greatest joy and legacy.

Those who knew Jess will remember her ability to exude warmth, love, and kindness. Her radiant smile and confidence lit up every room she entered, while her humility kept her focused on making every person she met feel valued and loved. Even in the face of her battle with brain cancer, she never wavered in her desire to put others before her: never complaining, never faltering, constantly inspiring.

Jess’ greatest joys – outside of being an incredible mother – were welcoming her friends and family into her home or events she took part in planning. She never turned away a visitor or thought twice of hosting a gathering. Her children and family were blessed to know that every milestone, no matter how small, would be celebrated with homemade treats, decorations, and special activities, with love and tenderness to spare. She truly filled her home with laughter, love, and memories that will live on forever.

From her earliest days growing up with her three sisters, to her final hours, Jess was a tenacious fighter with willpower and drive to shape her world as she saw fit. She made challenges appear easy; she made her children’s every day a cause for celebration.

She is survived by her husband, their three children, her parents, Dave and Jane Brockhaus, and her sisters Brittany (Bryan) Wendlandt (Miles and Lucy), Catherine (Brendan) Ahern (Patrick and Joseph), and Lauren (Dan) Zacherl, as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, September 17 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church with a funeral mass to follow at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the St. Mary’s Springs Academy Foundation or the Charity Club of Fond du Lac, where she was a long-time member and officer, in her memory.

Though her time here was far too short, Jess’ love and spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

Online condolences may be shared at zacherlfuneralhome.com.