Jessica D. Aber

1981 - 2025

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Jessica "Jess" D. Aber, who left this world far too soon on March 22, 2025, at the age of 43, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, integrity, and service.

Born on September 9, 1981, in Walnut Creek, California, Jess spent her childhood in Alamo, California, where she grew into the bright and compassionate woman we all knew. She graduated from Monte Vista High School in Danville, California, before earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Richmond in 2003. Her passion for justice led her to William & Mary Law School, where she graduated in 2006.

Jess was a force—brilliant yet humble, dedicated yet selfless. Her legal career was nothing short of extraordinary. She clerked for U.S. District Court Judge M. Hannah Lauck in the Eastern District of Virginia's (EDVA) famed Rocket Docket, an experience that solidified her calling to public service. For 12 years she served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in her beloved EDVA, where she tackled some of the most complex and high-stakes cases, from financial fraud and public corruption to victim-centric cases that demanded deep empathy, sharp legal acumen, an unwavering dedication to justice. Jess was also a champion of rehabilitation, playing a key role in shaping the Richmond Drug Court program into a national model.

In 2021, Jess was unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate as U.S. Attorney for EDVA—a role she embraced not for power or prestige, but as a servant leader committed to restoring public trust in law enforcement. Even in her highest moments, Jess remained grounded, always shifting the spotlight to those around her with a simple, signature gesture: "Okay, come on, let's move on."

Beyond her career, Jess's heart was devoted to serving others. She volunteered tirelessly, mentoring at-risk youth, contributing through the Junior League, and donating blood monthly to the American Red Cross. She also possessed exemplary culinary talents, earning multiple blue ribbons at the Virginia State Fair, most notably for her famous Dulce de Leche brownies and biscuits. But her greatest joy was found in life's simple moments—walking in the woods with her beloved Labrador, Ben, or gathering with loved ones over a home-cooked meal.

Jess is survived by her loving partner and his daughters, Michael, Abby and Faith Dry of Williamsburg, Virginia; her parents, Bill and Sue Aber of Leland, North Carolina; her sister Penny Aber-Kahn and brother-in-law David Kahn of Ponte Vedra, Florida; her brother Bob and sister-in-law Betty Aber of Northbrook, Illinois; her sister Cindy Aber of Decatur, Georgia; her cherished nieces and nephews; and a large extended family on her maternal side. She also leaves behind a vast network of dear friends and colleagues across the globe who were touched by her warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit.

A memorial service to honor and celebrate Jess's life will be held on May 5 at 4 p.m. at The Virginia Museum of History and Culture in Richmond, Virginia. All who knew and loved her are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jess's memory may be made to her most cherished causes: Change the World RVA, Caritas, St. Mary's Health Wagon, or N Street Village.

Jess was a woman of immense strength, compassion, and conviction. She lived her life in service to others, never seeking recognition but leaving an indelible mark on the world nonetheless. She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched.