Jaleigha Ann Dunlap

It is with deep sadness that the family of Jaleigha Ann Dunlap announce her passing at the age of 22 on November 17, 2025 at her residence hall at Boston College. Jaleigha was born June 11, 2003 in Gastonia, North Carolina to Jessica Strauss and John Dunlap(deceased). Jaleigha attended Villages Charter High School, where she earned her diploma with honors in 2021. Jaleigha received the Questbridge Scholarship to Boston College where she attended until her passing. Jaleigha majored in African and African Diaspora Studies with a specialized interest in criminal justice and black feminism. While at BC she served as an undergraduate research assistant, was President of Questbridge scholars as well as a member of the McNair Scholars Program.

Jaleigha advocated voraciously for issues related to historically marginalized communities. At BC, she co-lead FACES where she gave remarks, mentored younger students and organized discussions related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Jaleigha displayed leadership in every aspect of her life. She mentored younger students on issues related to college life, community, mental health and justice. To know Jaleigha was an honor and a privilege. She made whomever she met a better human. She taught us all so much and had so much more to give. Jaleigha left us too soon but we love her for who she was for just over two decades.

Jaleigha is survived by her own extraordinary mentor, advocate and mother Jessica Strauss. She is survived by her grandmother Frances Strauss and uncles, aunts and cousins that loved her dearly. Predeceasing her in death was her primary father figure and grandfather Peter Strauss as well as her biological father John Dunlap. Jaleigha was surrounded by supportive and doting friends, including Victor, Lorena, Brady, Amina, Lizzie, and Dylan who loved her unconditionally and always will.

A service to celebrate Jaleigha's life will be held at Beyers Funeral Home in Lady Lake, FL on Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 4:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to https://giving.jedfoundation.org/page/yearend2025 to support mental health programs for young adults.