Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Jerica Mazzaferro Obituary
sister, aunt, and friend
LEOMINSTER
Jerica Ann Mazzaferro, 48, of Leominster, died on Wednesday, January 15, 2020, at Brigham & Women's Hospital in Boston, after a brave battle with breast cancer.
Jerica was born in Leominster, MA on March 27, 1971, the daughter of Joseph D. Mazzaferro and Carol A. "Tootsie" Mazzaferro. She leaves her son, Jasper J. Mazzaferro, two brothers, Joseph D. Mazzaferro Jr. and Matthew M. Mazzaferro, his wife Caron, and their children Julia, Nicholas, Jason, and Amanda, all of Leominster. She leaves her father, Joseph D. Mazzaferro, his wife Jane Mazzaferro of Sterling, MA; and her sister Kristen R. Mazzaferro, of Austin, TX. She is predeceased by her mother.
Jerica graduated Salutatorian in 1989 from Leominster High School. She continued her education at Hampshire College and The University of Kent, UK where she studied film, video, photography, and literature. She followed her inner compass and her quest for knowledge and adventure, backpacking through Europe, Morocco and other destinations before landing in New York City, where she pursued a career in film and television, working on countless productions as a young freelancer.
The French language and culture held a special place in Jerica's heart. She immersed herself at the Accord Ecole de Langues in Paris, bringing that love back with her to Boston, where she hosted French Table, sang in French Choir, and volunteered in the French Library. While in Colorado, she kindled a love for fitness by skiing and mountain-biking, which led her to become a triathlete. She participated in many 5k's, Hyannis Triathlons, as well as the 2011 Boston Marathon. While volunteering at a dog rescue in Utah, she found and adopted "Egypt", her devoted pet and cherished travel and fitness companion.
Undoubtedly, the birth of her son Jasper provided Jerica with the greatest pride and joy of her life. In 2015, she returned to Leominster to raise Jasper, and to be amidst her circle of family and friends in her beloved hometown.
Her family and dear friends sustained and supported her through her hardest journey, which she navigated with grace to the end. Jerica will continue to be deeply missed by everyone whose lives she touched, far and near. Her independence, passion, courage, and beauty leave us awestruck with love and inspiration forever.
Jerica's funeral will be held on Saturday, January 25th from the Silas F. Richardson & Son Funeral Home, 106 West St. Leominster, with a 10 am funeral mass in St. Anna Parish 194 Lancaster St. Leominster. Burial will follow in St. Leo's Cemetery, Leominster. Calling hours in the funeral home are Friday, January 24th from 4 ~ 7 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dogtown Sanctuary in Utah (bestriends.org) or the Ellie Fund for breast cancer (elliefund.org), which supported Jerica in so many ways during her illness and treatments. www.richardsonfuneralhome.net
View the online memorial for Jerica Mazzaferro
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Jerica Mazzaferro
Sponsored by SentinelandEnterprise.com.
Mathieu Paiement
July 25, 2025
Dear Jerica,
Today, you popped into my mind, like a sweet memory. I thought I should try and reach out. I googled the name I shall never forget how to spell... and now I am devastated.
Thanks for the good times, in Montréal, in Boston and in between. Thanks for your smile. Thanks for your love.
My heart is broken, squirrel.
My sincere condolences to your family and your many friends.
Mathieu
Montréal
Kristen
January 25, 2021
I have only just discovered the comments and photos that Jerica's friends and loved one have shared in this space. Over a year later these have been such a joy to discover. Thank you everyone so much for sharing your love, memories and photos.
February 1, 2020
After reading all the amazing heartfelt tributes to a truly amazing woman and friend, I am tearfully moved emotionally to let all know that when Jerica met her maker, she must have heard Well done my good and faithful servant. What a warm individual and what a legacy of a well- lived life and an example for the rest of us. God Bless Jerica. Thank you for the example you left so many ❤ anonymous RIP
Thierry
January 27, 2020
So very sad to hear of Jerica's passing. We were friends in Boston, and I have very fond memories of her. She was so sweet and lovely, and indeed a terrific cook!
My sincere condolences to Jerica's family and friends.
Amy-Beth Palazzi-Craven
January 25, 2020
My condolences to the entire Mazzaferro family. Jerica was a beautiful child and a ray of sunshine. She is an angel now and was an angel then. God Bless all of you. Love always, Amy-Beth (Palazzi) Craven.
Sally Thomas
January 25, 2020
Darling Jerica I cannot believe you have gone, how we will miss you girlfriend. So kind and funny, always looking on the brighter side of life with a wise crack. You made me laugh so hard. Life will be duller without you in it, your intrepid adventures and thirst for new experiences was inspiring, and thank goodness for us that you didn't let anything stand in your way by bringing little Jasper to meet the Euro gang. We were so lucky to meet him and see what a great mum you were. Sending love and best wishes to all of Jerica's family and friends, we are all devastated for your loss. All the love to my cosmic girlfriend Jerica, from Sally, Tom and Jack
Christophe & April Perez
January 25, 2020
Jerica will remain in our hearts and memories as a great friend, one who was immensely generous and kind, always bent on helping others.
She loved to meet people from all walks of life and bring them together.
Her love of the French culture and language led her to become a cherished figure in Boston's French community, to which we belong.
She often opened her apartment to us for legendary dinner parties. We will forever keep fond memories of these times, but also above all of Jerica's larger-than-life smile and laughter.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jerica's loved ones; we are so sorry for your loss. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
Jon & Andrea Grafton
January 25, 2020
Our Deepest Condolences to the Mazzaferro Family.
Faye Hadley
January 25, 2020
Jerica and I met at the University of Kent at Canterbury in 1991. Even though her stay in the UK was shortened by her mother's state of health, we spent memorable moments together getting into the swing of Uni life, which meant lots of socialising, parties and fun times in the campus dorms, common rooms and pubs.
After Jerica returned to the States, we kept in touch over the years, and delighted in meeting up in Paris, Boston, New York, Cape Cod, Leominster, Montreal, Les Gorges du Tarn, London and finally Normandie in Oct 2017, where we got to meet each other's children for the first time.
We shared each other's joys, as well as trials and tribulations. Our lives were intertwined, and Jerica will be dearly remembered by myself, as well as family and friends Sally, Tom, Suzanne, Vincent, Richard, Ben and Aleix.
Such an open, joyous, kind, compassionate and generous friend, Jerica would never fail to send us her neatly packed homemade scented candles every Christmas. It was her original personal touch which we always marvelled at. We will light them today thinking of Jerica, and of her family and close friends, to whom we send our heartfelt condolences.
Faye Hadley and family
Ann Tata
January 25, 2020
My deepest condolences to the entire Mazzaferro family....
Elizabeth Geertsema
January 25, 2020
My deepest condolences to Jerica's family and friends.
I was heartbroken and shocked to learn about her untimely death. She was one of my best friends for the past 20 years. We spent some amazing times together in many places around the world; sometimes domestically in MA or NY; and sometimes abroad in Morocco or England. We once spent three weeks traveling around Morocco together, learning the North African culture, speaking French, visiting the Sahara desert and riding camels. She was the ultimate travel companion; kind, gregarious, friendly and adventurous.
In recent years we didn't talk very often due to distance and children, but I always thought of her and looked forward to reconnecting with her when possible. I was hoping she, Jasper and Egypt would visit me soon in New Jersey. She never mentioned her illness to me or many of our friends. Perhaps she didn't want too many people to know her path or to feel sad for her. I wish she had not kept this to herself as much.
She was full of life and energy for all things French. She had a beautiful smile and a contagious laugh. She was a lot of fun to hang out with and I will sorely miss her company, kindness, wisdom and funny texts. When she last visited me in Cohasset, Massachusetts, I was so happy to see her with Jasper and have our kids spend time together, too...something I had always dreamed we would do.
She loved Jasper so incredibly much and showed her love without hesitation. In recent years I was so happy to see her blossom as a mother. I hope Jasper's memory of his wonderful mother will live forever in his heart and mind.
So sorry again for your terrible loss.
David Duval
January 24, 2020
My heart goes out to all the Mazzaferro family. Also all those whom Jerica had the pleasure of knowing. We had Theater class together in high school. Jerica was such a sweet and gentle spirit. Jerica always had a smile. It didn't matter who you were, if she got to know you, she made you feel like a friend. God bless Jerica. The Lord has welcomed you home.
Kerri Boyd
January 24, 2020
Our Sincere Condolences to the Entire Mazzafarro Family. Our thoughts and Prayers are with you. Love The Brodin Family
Jason and Emily Normandin
January 24, 2020
To the entire Mazzaferro family.... you are such a dear family and we are so very sorry for your loss. May your beautiful memories of Jerica help you find peace during this time. Our love to all of you
JanIs Vargas
January 23, 2020
Our sincere condolences to you and the family
Corey Tourigny
January 23, 2020
You will be so missed! Truly one of the nicest souls to have walked the face of this earth. I wish we had seen each other more over the years. There will always be a special place in my heart just for you...until we meet again my friend.
Deborah Renzi
January 22, 2020
To the Mazzaferro Family....As I look through the pictures of Jerica I see my
Aunt Anita (Jerica's Grandmother) a sweet and kind women...taken too soon
Jerica was also a beautiful accomplished young mother taken too soon...SO SAD
Thoughts and Prayers are with you....Love Deb Renzi
ALAN BASSET
January 22, 2020
ALAN BASSET
January 22, 2020
ALAN BASSET
January 22, 2020
ALAN BASSET
January 22, 2020
ALAN BASSET
January 22, 2020
ALAN BASSET
January 22, 2020
Alan Basset
January 22, 2020
Condolences to the family.
We used to be good friends before she moved to Quebec. Here are a few memories of our adventures.
January 21, 2020
January 21, 2020
Amanda Walker
January 21, 2020
I worked with Jerica at Green Associates in Boston and had not seen her for many years. One day in April, 2011, I was trudging my way up "Heart Break Hill" during the last several miles of the Boston Marathon, and I heard someone call my name. As I turned around it was Jerrica! She was running past me, but took the time to smile big and say hello.
I also remember Jerica's thoughtful nature. She gave me a pair of ped socks with the pink breast cancer awareness ribbon on them, back in 2010.
I am so very sorry to hear of her passing and send my condolences to her family.
Sincerely,
Amanda Walker
Scott Hay
January 21, 2020
Dear Joe, Joey, Matt and the rest of the Jerica's family and friends; So sorry to hear of her passing. May your memories, family, and friends bring you solace in your time of sorrow. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
January 20, 2020
My condolences to Jerica's family and her many friends.
May your memories of her brighten your lives every day.
She was a lovely, gracious, and strong woman.
Susan Tyler, Amherst MA
Anne-Ruxandra Carvunis
January 20, 2020
To the Mazzaferro family, and to Jerica's friends.
My most heartfelt condolences are flying to you in these tragic, senseless times. Jerica was my very first American friend, a big sister and a guardian angel to me. I would like to share some happy memories with you.
When I moved from Paris to Boston in 2006, I didn't know anyone and barely spoke any English. Jerica opened her arms, her heart and her table to me immediately. She invited me to her nice apartment in Mission Hill where she introduced me to more friends, lots of beautiful music, and my first (and still to this day my best ever!) home made ice cream sandwiches. A couple of years later I ended up living in this very same apartment while Jerica lived in her adorable studio in Cambridge. We had so much fun together and shared so many wonderful memories. Dancing! Shopping! Concerts! Fondues! The Barbie Mobile! Playing with Egypt! Ski trips! Beach trips! Even a trip to Montreal, this city she loved so much and eventually moved to. I too moved away but we always kept in touch and saw each other every time we were both in New England for any reason. I am so glad I had the joy to meet her son, the light of her life and her everything.
https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPLHlYarUJwJpwWogjethYHfEf5mEDy-xBnnLkIhMOuHZabeiTGhM5I8FrPV9seBQ?key=OWY3QklHc2M4Q3hFQ3VxNHZ0VHMwVjA0Y2hlanpB
There are no words to express how much Jerica influenced my life. She was so wise, so honest, had such a unique perspective on every situation. She has guided and supported me every step of the way, in my love life and my professional life. She gave me so many gifts. She even chose the outfit I wore on the day I defended my PhD and helped me edit my dissertation! I wouldn't be who I am today without the marvelous, brilliant, generous, fun and kind Jerica Mazzaferro. I am so grateful to be her friend. I will miss you dearly, ma copine cherie. Je t'aime!
January 20, 2020
Joe - and family,
I never had the pleasure of meeting this remarkable person, but am very saddened to hear of your loss, my old friend.
Peter Tocci
January 20, 2020
I am very sorry to hear about Jerica. We were friends in High school. I always thought of her as a very special person with an amazing personality. My thoughts are with your family.
Sincerely,
JoelLaino, Beverly, MA.
October 2017, Normandie, France
Suzanne Reiff
January 20, 2020
Jerica, you will be terribly missed! Such a beautiful and kind soul, always smiling, and caring. We will treasure the moments you spent with us in France, with our children. You are in my thoughts and prayers. My condolences to her family and friends in the U.S.
Sarah DeCarolis
January 19, 2020
Mr. Mazzaferro, Joey, and Matt,
So sorry to hear of Jerica's passing. I am thinking of your family now and in the days to come. Sincerely,
Sarah (Bernier) DeCarolis
A chilly day at Davis Farmland in Spring 2017
Molly Ruble
January 19, 2020
A chilly day at Davis Farmland in Spring 2017
Molly Ruble
January 19, 2020
A chilly day at Davis Farmland in Spring 2017
Molly Ruble
January 19, 2020
A chilly day at Davis Farmland in Spring 2017
Molly Ruble
January 19, 2020
A chilly day at Davis Farmland in Spring 2017
Molly Ruble
January 19, 2020
A chilly day at Davis Farmland in Spring 2017
Molly Ruble
January 19, 2020
A chilly day at Davis Farmland in Spring 2017
Molly Ruble
January 19, 2020
A summer play date with Jerica, Jasper & Egypt at our house in Ashburnham
January 19, 2020
Hannah Bureau
January 19, 2020
Thinking of you my beautiful friend. Im glad I got to meet your treasured son and just wish we had had more time.
Ken Meade
January 19, 2020
Joey and family, my deepest condolences on the loss of your daughter. From what I've read, she must have been a great joy to you and yours. I'm sure she will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Tom Palazzi
January 19, 2020
Joey,Matt and Family, My sincere condolences for the passing of Jerica.
November 2019
January 19, 2020
Gael Dussault
January 18, 2020
Dear Joey and family,
I am sorry that you have lost your beautiful and talented daughter, Jerica. May she Rest In Peace.
Gael Dussault
Bridget Brown
January 18, 2020
Jerica, u were such a bright light, a loving passionate mother to Jasper, intelligent, eloquent, beautiful woman. Only God knows why your light was snuffed in this untimely manner, and u so courageously w grace accepted ur illness. I will forever admire ur wondrous strength and cherish our Christmas memories w family. Rest in peace, Lovely.
Laurie Walsh
January 18, 2020
Sweet Jerica! So sorry the Demon of Cancer got You! I fight & Hope some day this AWFUL DEMON is gone & does not Destroy Lives & Families! RIP Beautiful Jerica.. May You Fly Free & be a Guardian on ALL Our Shoulders!
Kelly Couture
January 18, 2020
In loving memory
Erin Killelea
January 18, 2020
I graduated a year behind Jerica at LHS and admired her greatly. I was so saddened by this news and am praying for and thinking of her family, little Jasper in particular.
Cindy Bryce
January 18, 2020
My heart goes out to the family. Jerica had such an infectious laugh, and always had a big smile on her beautiful face. I will always admire her love of animals, and love for her son. She will certainly be missed by many.
My condolences to the Mazzaferro family.. and may you Rest In Peace Jerica
My daughter Nina with Jasper in Cape Cod
Shann Ménard
January 18, 2020
I met Jerica at our workplace in Montreal. She was a hard worker and always fun to hang out with. We became quick friends after that. We would meet every week with other friends to play games and have a laugh. We shared picnics and dinners. She was even my jogging partner for a while. She was devoted to the people she loved and to Egypt, whom she walked religiously and treated like gold. When she moved away, we were sad to see her go. She quickly invited us up to Cape Cod where we shared an awesome vacation. I was thrilled when she told me she was pregnant with Jasper. I am happy that our kids had the chance to play together. I will miss her with all of my heart. It is a tragedy that she is lost to her loved ones so young. All of my love and condolences.
- Shann et Pierre-Luc à Montréal
Delphine Alignol
January 18, 2020
I am in tears right now!!! Jerica and I met several years ago at a running club and we became friends instantly. We connected because of our love for the outdoors and she loved speaking french with me. Her french was excellent. Jerica was such an amazing person. She was so outgoing, funny, smart, a great athlete, and loving person.
Jerica, Tu restera dans mon coeur pour toujours.
Cheryl (Squirt) Vidal
January 18, 2020
To Jerica's Family,
I am so saddened to hear of Jerica's passing. I remember her as a little girl on Seagull Beach and then growing into a beautiful and talented woman. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jennifer Waddell
January 18, 2020
I'm so very sorry to hear this. Jerica and I worked together at HMCo for several years and we used to go out to see bands because we had similar taste in music. She was a lot of fun, smart, and I liked her a whole lot. I will always remember each of us wearing one iPod earbud to listen to our favorite song of the moment and dancing down the street. I was just thinking about her the other day and wishing we hadn't lost touch.
Sandra Petrucci
January 17, 2020
Mon amie,
J'ai le cur brisé.
On t'aime Alice et moi
January 17, 2020
Matt,
My condolences! So sorry for your loss.
my thoughts and prayers are with you and
your family.
Christian Love,
Louise Waitt
Showing 1 - 62 of 62 results
Make a Donation
in Jerica Mazzaferro's name
Memorial Events
for Jerica Mazzaferro
Jan
24
Calling hours
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Richardson Funeral Home - Leominster106 West St, Leominster, MA 01453
How to support Jerica's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Jerica Mazzaferro's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
