Jill Rene Hennessey

Jill Rene Hennessey (née Guenther) passed peacefully into eternity with her savior on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. Jill was a devoted mother, proud grandmother, loving daughter, supportive sister, and steadfast friend. A one-of-a-kind creation, her joyful spirit touched the lives of everyone she encountered. She was incredibly beautiful, talented, creative, loyal, and generous with each of these gifts. She was a true force of love and laughter. Her loss is felt profoundly by all who knew her.

Jill embraced her role as middle child and only daughter. She was born July 8, 1962, to Ralph (Rod) and Darla Guenther in Cincinnati, Ohio. She fondly recalled growing up in a home filled with close-knit relationships, affection, extended family, and laughter. She had a special bond with her dad, a true "daddy's little girl". He fostered her sense of humor with puns at the dinner table. Though they didn't encourage him by laughing, Jill would repeat the jokes to her friends at the first opportunity.

She graduated from Turpin High School in 1980, where she took many opportunities to be involved. Jill remained active throughout her life, always embracing new experiences. She met Kevin when she was 18, and his creativity and adventurous spirit attracted her to him almost instantly. They were married on October 17, 1981.

Jill poured her heart and soul into raising her children. Karen and Kraig were her pride and joy. She prioritized being present, often sacrificing other activities to support and encourage them. She taught them the meaning of unconditional love. She took joy in celebrating simple moments with her children. She could turn any day into a meaningful or silly memory.

Jill worked for her family's graphic arts business when her children were young, which allowed her a flexible schedule to prioritize her family. Just as in other areas of her life, her professional journey included many adventures and different experiences. She excelled in everything she did. She was particularly gifted in creative activities, including floral design, décor, painting, costuming, and event planning. Jill fulfilled a long-time dream by going back to school and graduating top of her class with a degree in medical massage. Later in life, she found her place embracing work with nature and the outdoors.

Her most cherished title was "Grandma Jill". She took the greatest joy in her grandchildren, striving to be present for them as she did for her own children. She dove headfirst into every activity, participating in skiing, mud runs, and escape rooms. She decorated for even the smallest holiday and ensured that no birthday passed without a celebration and a gift.

Jill personified true friendship and knew how to simply be present. She was the kind of friend that everyone hopes to have. She freely stepped into what others were walking through, whether joyfully preparing for her grandkids' prom or tenderly supporting a widowed friend. Her willingness to tackle any project at hand and creative talents were invaluable. She was a prayer warrior with a servant's heart.

Jill will be lovingly remembered by her mother Darla Guenther; her children, Karen Smith (Jacob), and Kraig Hennessey (Jessica); her beloved grandchildren, Noah, Owen, and Grant Smith, Gavin Roy, and Brooklyn and Sebastian Roberts; and her separated husband Kevin Hennessey. She will be missed by her brothers Gregory and Martin Guenther, along with her aunts, uncles, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her adored father Ralph (Rod) Guenther.

More than anything else, Jill wanted her family and friends to remember that she loved them. She was always there for others, whether physically or through prayer and encouragement from home. Jill will be remembered for her love of music, dancing, nature, and a good joke. Jill's legacy lives on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her. Memories of Jill will forever echo with joy. In celebrating her remarkable journey, let us remember not just the sorrow of her departure, but her vibrant life and resolute faith that endures.

Visitation will take place on Sunday, August 17th from 3-5pm at First Baptist Church of Glen Este, 1034 Old State Route 74, Batavia, OH 45103, followed by a memorial service at 5pm.

There will be a celebration of life afterward from 6-10pm at Mount Carmel Social Club, 704 Cincinnati Batavia Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45245. All are welcome and encouraged to attend to share photos, memories, and stories. Food and drink will be provided.

We all know Jill loved flowers. However, she was not fond of funeral arrangements. In lieu of traditional funeral arrangements, please consider bringing bouquets or mixed flowers directly to the celebration of life to help us enjoy all of the things she loved.