Jessica Anne Lipari's Obituary
Jessica “Jess” Anne Lipari, age 41, of Racine, Wisconsin, passed away on November 17, 2025, at Aurora St. Luke’s Hospital in Milwaukee after a courageous battle with cancer. Born December 12, 1983, in Milwaukee and raised in Racine by her parents, Ralph and Debra (née Christensen) Lipari. Jess grew into a vibrant, creative, and unforgettable presence whose spirit touched countless lives.
Jess was a proud graduate of the J.I. Case High School Class of 2002. She spent many years working at Denny’s, where she formed lasting friendships and was known for her warm smile and quick wit. Her love for animals, especially her beloved dogs, Bella and Rosie, and her cherished sugar gliders, was one of the defining joys of her life. Deeply involved in several sugar glider Facebook groups, Jess played an active role in rescue efforts and generously mentored new owners, offering advice, support, and encouragement whenever it was needed.
Creativity was at the heart of Jess’s world. She found joy in the arts-tie-dyeing, painting, and coloring, and could often be found outside tending to flower gardens. She loved experimenting in the kitchen, always eager to try new recipes, and was especially known for her outstanding baked beans made from her grandma’s cherished recipe, a dish that became a beloved staple of Easter gatherings.
Jess will be fondly remembered for her kind heart, sharp sense of humor, and wonderfully feisty spirit. She had strong opinions, loved a lively debate, and was stubborn in a way that only made her more endearing. She delighted in jokes, pranks, and playful mischief, traits that brought laughter and light to those around her. Above all, Jess was selfless. She consistently put others first, worrying more about the people she loved than about herself.
Her memory will continue to be lovingly held by her children: Hailey Lipari, Shaianne Davis, and Abrianna Davis; her mother, Debbie Lipari; her father, Ralph (Sue) Lipari; her fiancé, Peter Mitchell Sr. and his son, Peter Jr. “PJ”; her best friend and confidant, Tonya (Brent) Howe; her stepsisters, Stephanie Martens and Lindsay (Chris) Thilburg; her aunts and uncles: Lynn (Robert) Evans, Donese (Pablo) Jimenez, Diane Christensen, Neil Christensen, Joe (Connie) Lipari, and Mary Sue Lipari; many cousins, other relatives, and numerous friends.
Jess is now reunited in spirit with her maternal grandparents, Harold and Betty (née Rashleger) Christensen; her paternal grandparents, Dominick and Alberta (née DeRose) Lipari; her stepbrother, John Martens III; her aunt, Candy (Darwin) Czubin; and her cousin, Gabriel Fisher.
A celebration of Jess’s life will be held at Wilson Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Family and friends are invited to a visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a ceremony at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions in remembrance of Jess.
Jess’s life was a testament to compassion, creativity, and courage. Jess’s memory will live on in the many hearts she touched, the animals she cared for, and the joy she brought into the world.
What’s your fondest memory of Jessica?
What’s a lesson you learned from Jessica?
Share a story where Jessica's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Jessica you’ll never forget.
How did Jessica make you smile?

