Jessica Rae Chavez, 39, of Vandalia, Illinois, passed away Saturday, December 31, 2022, at her home in Vandalia, IL.
Services will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, January 9, 2023, at Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL, with Pastor Doug Wodtka officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, two hours prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorials: The Jessica Chavez Children’s Fund. Miller Funeral Home, Vandalia, IL, is in charge of arrangements. Online memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.millerfh.net
She was born December 9, 1983, in Centralia, IL, the daughter of Dan L. Hanks and Donna Rae (Cantrell) Hanks-Fitzwater. Married Gordon J. Chavez on July 1, 2022, in Vandalia, IL. She worked as a registered nurse and manager at Mederi Home Health in Breeze, IL. Jessica loved music, cooking, traveling, and her dogs. She was a great wife and mother, enjoyed spending time with her family, and was so proud of her kids.
She is survived by: Mother – Donna Fitzwater & Wesley, Vandalia, IL; Husband – Gordon Chavez, Vandalia, IL; Sons – Caydan T. Knebel and Kelby R. Knebel, both of Vandalia, IL; Sisters – Nancy Simmons & John, Springville, IN and Allison Kelly & Jake, Brownstown, IL; Half Brothers – W. Rush Fitzwater & Leslie, Rayville, LA, Jesse Fitzwater & Emilee, Kinmundy, IL, and Ben Fitzwater, Salem, IL; Step-Son – Zion Chavez & Emily Alcorn, Central City, IL; Step-Daughters – Lilly Pate & Isaiah, Germany, and Raven Chavez, Central City, IL; Step-Grandparents – Jerry & Penny Fitzwater; and Nieces & Nephews.
Preceded in death by her father.
