Jessica Lynn Belisle

Jessica Lynn Belisle, 35, died on Tuesday, July 11th at her Worcester home she shared with longtime boyfriend Chris Williams, after a long battle with addiction. She was born in Norwich, CT to Teri (Marcil) Harwood and the late Daniel Belisle. She attended Hampshire Regional High School and received her diploma through the Springfield School System.
Jessica was a very talented writer. She published poetry in Elementary School and from a young age, she wanted to be a mother. She had two daughters and was a very loving caregiver until her challenges with addiction severely impacted her ability to parent her children. When she lost custody of her girls, she worked very hard to get her life back on track and overcome this terrible disease. But this challenge proved too much, and eventually led to her death.
Jessica’s struggles with addiction further compounded her mental and emotional health needs. It was an ongoing battle for Jessica to stay the course with the many different interventions that she would often express feeling hopeful about over the years. Furthermore, the more Jessica encountered struggle in her life, the more she endured experiences that were harmful to her wellbeing. It is our greatest wish that Jessica’s true essence, her spirit, is in a place of safety now. We wish her peace during this part of her journey, and hope she feels the love and support of those that loved and knew her, as well as compassion from those who may have distanced themselves from her over the years.
Navigating addiction challenges and severe mental health struggles with those we love, often leave us tired and exhausted. We worry for their safety and want nothing more for them, than the ability to experience radical change that will allow them to live full and healthy lives. Despite Jessica’s limitations, she was a kind person who desired to be involved in her children’s lives. She sought connection from friends and community and seemed to really desire a better quality of living for herself and her family.
Jessica was predeceased by her father Daniel Belisle. She is survived by her mother Teri Harwood and her stepfather Raymond Harwood, Sr., her two daughters; Rin (Sophia) Belisle, 13 and Ava Lemanski, 10 and her brothers; Raymond Harwood, Jr., Shawn Matthews and Daniel Belisle. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, July 21st at 5:00 PM at Wilbraham Funeral Home, 2551 Boston Rd., Wilbraham. Visitation will precede the Service from 4-5:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you discuss the devastating effects of drug use and addiction with the children in your life. In honor of Jessica’s memory, please contact your local legislators to advocate for an increase in funding for addiction and mental health research and treatment.