Jessica Marie Heinrich, 42, passed away on March 8, 2025, surrounded by family in Wyoming. She was a woman with a big heart, a bold spirit, and a personality that could fill any room. To know Jess was to know laughter, kindness, a little bit of sparkle, and a bit of spice.
Jess was born on July 11, 1982, in Sundance, WY, and grew up in Upton, WY, where she embraced the small-town lifestyle with a love for sports, rodeo, and 4-H. She spent much of her youth on horseback, learning life lessons in the arena and the open Wyoming landscape. She graduated from Upton High School in 2001, and with her natural gift for creativity and connection, she pursued cosmetology school, where she quickly found her passion.
In 2004, Jess moved to Mitchell, SD, where she took a job at AT&T. Her outgoing personality and determination made her a top sales representative in the tri-state area, but her heart eventually led her back to what she loved most—being a hairstylist. She later earned a degree from Mitchell Technical Institute (MTI) and continued building her career in the beauty industry, making everyone in her chair feel welcomed, heard, and valued.
Jess spent eight years with Steve Bobb, and while their relationship changed, they remained close friends. She had a way of forming lifelong bonds, and even when miles separated her from family, she surrounded herself with friends who became family. No matter where she was, she loved to keep in touch, always making time for a call, a joke, or a heartfelt conversation.
In 2023, Jess moved back to Wyoming for a fresh start and to be closer to family. She was loved more than she ever knew by many. Many traveled to see her in her last weeks of life, a reflection of the deep friendships and love she had cultivated throughout her life.
Jess was one of a kind—there will never be another like her. She was the life of the party, always ready with a joke or a story. She accepted many exactly as they were, and always embracing. She had a big heart and a big spirit, and she could turn a stranger into a friend in a matter of minutes. She loved all things glitter and sparkle, never shying away from a little extra shine.
Jess found joy in gardening, canning with her dear friend Gloria, hiking, disc golfing, riding horses, scrapbooking, crocheting, and coloring. She cherished Christmas with her family, sister trips (even when they included a good argument maybe even an occasional swing), and loved time spent in the sun or near the water. She was known for making some of the best canned salsa and tomato soup, and she always had a camera nearby to capture moments with the people she loved.
She adored her nieces and nephews. Being an aunt was one of her greatest joys and loved spending time with them when she could. Always taking pictures to have those memories at her fingertips for the harder days.
Jess is survived by her parents, Richard Heinrich and Vickie Heinrich; her siblings, Eric (Valerie) Heinrich, Jena (Bailey) Cowen, Janel Heinrich, and Jodi (Joe) Ensminger; her beloved nieces and nephews; and countless friends who became like family.
She is preceded in death by her grandparents, June and Alvin “Bud” Heinrich and Peggy Heenan.
Her journey was not always easy, but she faced it with stubborn determination and a heart full of love. She left behind laughter, memories, and a spirit that will never fade.
Visitation was held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Thursday, March 13, 2025, from 9:00AM to 10:00AM, Rosary services were held at 10:00 with Mass of Christian Burial followed at 10:30AM at the church. Burial took place on Friday, March 14, 2025 at 11:00AM, at the Ola Lutheran Cemetery in Ola, South Dakota.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Jena Cowen PO Box 374 Upton, WY 82730 in her memory and will be given back to the local organizations that have helped her with resources over few months/years.
Rest easy, Jess. Your light will never fade. 
