Jessica Louise “Jessie” Mersing died on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, after a 48-year battle with heart disease, surrounded by the love of her family.
Jessie was born on June 18, 1977, in New Haven, Connecticut. She grew up in Terra Alta, West Virginia, far past the 16 years the pediatric cardiologists predicted.
Jessie went on to play sports, have a job, and raise children: all activities the doctors thought impossible.
She also lived in spite of the many hayrides that tried to kill her. At every turn, she was a testament to grit and determination.
Jessie was preceded in death by her parents; her paternal grandparents; and her maternal grandfather.
She is survived by her sons JJ (Clowey) Burns and Benjamin (Gabby) Mersing; her grandchildren Mae Burns and Max Mersing; and her siblings, Jana (Brian) Hammerle, Jamie Mersing, and Andrew (Amanda) Mersing. She will also be missed by her nieces, cousins, and friends.
Jessie loved to cook and was, to her dismay, the first person called when someone had a recipe question. She loved 90s boy bands and exploring the outdoors.
More than anything, Jessie loved her grandchildren. She could always be found gardening with Mae or keeping up with Max’s imagination. Mae and Max were the center of her world, and the love she leaves for them is immeasurable. The red cookbook, this author is sure, she leaves for her sister Jana.
Services will be held at Pine Grove Church in Terra Alta on Sunday, August 31. In lieu of flowers, should anyone be so inclined, donations may be sent to the Terra Alta Public Library.
