Memorial Service of Jessica Barnes

A Final Goodbye

Today, we gather with heavy hearts to remember and celebrate the life of Jessica Ursulean, a radiant soul who brought light and love into the lives of everyone she met. True to her name, which means “God’s Gift,” Jessica was a gift in every sense—a daughter, sister, friend, and artist whose vibrant spirit left a lasting impact on us all.

Born on July 7, 2004, Jessica was the eldest of five children. She embraced her role as the big sister with love and care, always looking out for her siblings and supporting her family. Even from a young age, Jessica’s boundless energy and compassionate heart were evident. She was a “girly girl” at heart, but her inner strength and unwavering devotion to her family, especially in helping her mother care for her younger siblings, were a testament to her loving nature.

Jessica’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted member of Bethesda Church, she found joy and purpose in her relationship with God. From her early days in Sunday school and Awana to the moment she accepted Jesus into her heart at Camp Emanuel, her faith blossomed and became a guiding force in her life. Eager to share her love for God, Jessica volunteered at Vacation Bible School, passing on her joy and faith to younger generations.

Creativity was another gift Jessica possessed. A talented artist, she won awards for her work and found joy in expressing herself through art and music. Whether she was playing her violin, strumming her ukulele, or composing her own songs, Jessica’s creativity brought joy and beauty to her world. Though she was often shy about performing in front of others, her music was a reflection of her gentle, introspective nature and touched the hearts of those closest to her.

Jessica’s love for life was evident in the little things that made her happy—skateboarding, sketching, and spending time with family and friends. She had a knack for making thoughtful, handmade gifts, pouring her heart into everything she created. She wasn’t shy about sharing her faith, always offering encouragement and light to those around her.

After graduating high school in 2022, Jessica and her family moved to South Carolina. There, she began attending TriCounty Community College, continuing her journey of self-discovery and learning. In 2023, she fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Romania, where she reconnected with her heritage and met extended family for the first time. Upon her return, she found joy in her jobs at a local diner and ice cream shop, where her bright smile and kind spirit touched everyone she encountered.

Tragically, Jessica’s life was cut short in the summer of 2024 at just 20 years old. She is preceded in death by her son Angel, her maternal grandparents Ieremia and Ana Varvara, and her paternal grandmother Maria Ursulean. She leaves behind her loving parents, Cecilia and Constantin Ursulean, her siblings Simona, Maria, Matthew, and Mark, her paternal grandfather Constantin Ursulean, and a wide circle of family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Though Jessica’s time with us was brief, her legacy of love, creativity, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. As we remember her today, let us carry forward the joy and light she brought into our lives, and find peace in knowing that she rests in God’s eternal embrace.

We love you, Jessica. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.

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