It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Jessica Gooder, who lost her courageous battle with brain cancer on March 25, 2026, at the age of 32. Jessica’s death has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the entire Phillipsburg community.
Jessica, a beloved daughter, sister, and friend, was a shining example of resilience and strength. Her life, though tragically cut short, was one filled with love, laughter, and an unyielding fight against a disease that threatened to take her too soon. Jessica fought her battle with unmatched courage, and her light touched everyone who was fortunate enough to know her.
Born and raised in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, Jessica was known for her vibrant personality, infectious smile, and unwavering determination. As a young woman, she had dreams and aspirations, but the diagnosis of brain cancer in 2024 challenged those dreams. Yet, despite this devastating news, Jessica’s indomitable spirit never faltered. She embraced her diagnosis with incredible grace and chose to face each day with the same positivity and enthusiasm that had defined her life up until then.
Throughout her treatment, Jessica became an inspiration to all who met her. She was a strong advocate for childhood cancer research and often shared her journey in hopes of raising awareness and supporting others battling similar illnesses. Her bravery in the face of such a daunting challenge made her an example of strength for anyone who heard her story. She believed in the power of community and worked tirelessly to support local organizations aimed at funding better treatments for children with brain cancer.
But it wasn’t just her battle with cancer that defined Jessica; it was the way she lived her life. She was deeply devoted to her family and friends, always putting others’ needs before her own. Her relationship with her parents, siblings, and extended family was filled with love, care, and mutual support. She often said that family was her greatest gift, and she poured all her love into them every single day.
Jessica’s legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched throughout her life and her battle. She was more than just a fighter; she was a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges. Her kindness, generosity, and selflessness were evident in every action she took. From organizing fundraisers for cancer research to simply offering a listening ear to a friend in need, Jessica always found ways to help others. She lived with purpose, and that purpose was to make the world a better place, no matter what obstacles she faced.
In the final moments of her life, Jessica was surrounded by her loving family and friends, who had been by her side every step of the way. Her passing, though a devastating loss, serves as a reminder of her incredible strength and the impact she had on everyone who knew her.
Jessica is survived by her parents, William and Susan Gooder, her siblings, Sarah and David, and her beloved dog, Max. She was predeceased by her mother’s best friend, who she considered a second mother, and her cherished childhood friend. In addition to her immediate family, Jessica leaves behind a community of friends who will forever remember her infectious energy, her unyielding optimism, and her ability to bring people together.
A celebration of life will be held at Phillipsburg’s St. Mary’s Church on Saturday, April 2, 2026, at 11 a.m. The family welcomes all who knew and loved Jessica to attend and honor her life. A reception will follow at the community center, where family and friends can gather to share memories and celebrate the joy Jessica brought into their lives.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jessica’s name to the Childhood Brain Cancer Research Foundation, an organization that she supported throughout her illness. Donations can be made online or by mail.
Jessica’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and she will forever be remembered as a beacon of hope, love, and courage. Rest in peace, Jessica—you will never be forgotten.
Forever in our hearts.