In Loving Memory of Jessica Henderson

With profound heartbreak and deep sorrow, family, friends, and the Des Moines community mourn the tragic loss of Jessica Henderson, who passed away on the morning of May 9, 2026, after suffering injuries in a devastating act of domestic violence.

Jessica’s death has left loved ones shattered as they try to process the unimaginable loss of a woman remembered for her kindness, compassion, strength, and enormous heart. According to investigators, Jessica was critically injured in a shooting involving a former partner after previously reporting threats made against her.

As family, friends, and community members grieve, many are choosing to remember Jessica not for the violence that ended her life, but for the extraordinary love and light she brought into the lives of others.

Remembering Jessica Henderson

Jessica Henderson was far more than the tragedy surrounding her passing. She was a beloved daughter, devoted sister, proud stepmother, caring aunt, loyal friend, and someone whose presence deeply impacted the people fortunate enough to know her.

In a statement shared by her family, loved ones described Jessica as “a truly beautiful soul” who had “a rare gift for making everyone feel seen, valued, cared for, and important.”

Those closest to her remember a woman filled with warmth, compassion, humor, and fierce loyalty. She was the kind of person who showed up for others without hesitation — someone who helped strangers, stood beside friends during difficult times, and loved deeply with her whole heart.

Her family shared that Jessica especially adored her nieces and nephews, creating memories filled with laughter, comfort, and unconditional love. She was also a devoted dog mom to her beloved companion, Trigg, who brought her endless happiness and companionship.

A Life Taken Far Too Soon

At just 40 years old, Jessica still had so much life ahead of her. Her sudden passing leaves behind immeasurable grief for those who loved her and unimaginable pain for a family now forced to navigate life without her presence.

The circumstances surrounding her death have also sparked renewed conversations about the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of taking warning signs seriously.

According to authorities, Jessica had previously reported threatening messages from her former partner, including threats involving firearms. Investigators also recovered a GPS tracking device that had allegedly been placed on her vehicle.

Her death serves as a devastating reminder that domestic violence is not private or isolated — it affects families, friends, communities, and countless lives.

A Legacy of Compassion and Love

Though Jessica’s life ended tragically, the impact she made on others continues to live on.

Her family described her legacy as one rooted in love, compassion, strength, generosity, and selflessness. Those who knew her speak not only of her kindness, but of the way she made people feel genuinely cared for and important.

In grief, those memories now become treasures — reminders of a woman whose life mattered deeply and whose presence changed lives for the better.

A Call for Awareness

Jessica’s loved ones have also chosen to honor her memory by encouraging greater awareness and support for victims of domestic violence.

In their statement, they emphasized that domestic violence is a serious public safety issue and urged communities to recognize warning signs, strengthen support systems, and ensure survivors have access to resources and protection without judgment.

Their words reflect both unimaginable grief and a hope that Jessica’s story may help protect others facing similar dangers.

Forever Loved, Forever Remembered

Jessica Henderson will forever be remembered as a beautiful soul whose kindness, compassion, and love touched countless hearts.

Though her life was tragically cut short, the light she brought into the world continues to shine through the family, friends, and loved ones who carry her memory forward every day.

To all who loved Jessica, may you find comfort in cherished memories, strength in one another, and peace in knowing her legacy of love will never be forgotten.

Rest peacefully, Jessica Henderson.
Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.