Jennifer Lynn “Jenn” (Howard) Mc Craw
Jennifer Lynn “Jenn” (Howard) McCraw, Zanesville. Even the brightest eyes have dimmed and the most loving of hands have fallen still. On July 29th of 2020, at merely 37 years of age, Jennifer Lynn McCraw (Howard) left this world behind, transferring what remained of her promising life to the hearts of those she loved. In that she will live on forever, cherished in memory, to be recalled by the mouths of those who speak her stories. Being born in Zanesville, Ohio Jennifer took residence in many places, most recently Senecaville, Ohio before unexpectedly closing her eyes for the final time In Zanesville as well.
This is not to say she never made the most of her short time with us. Jennifer attended Elgin High School and Tri-Rivers career center, graduating with the class of 2001. Her mind was never idle and her ambition ran deep as she lived freely, blowing wherever the wind took her no matter the hair color requirement.
Attaining certification in medical assisting from Ross medical center (class of 2011) was not enough, she went on to gain and maintain employment through the Walmart optical center the last 7 years of her life, where she not only immersed herself into her career with focus on becoming a licensed Optician, but made many wonderful friends and even chose to adopt some as family along the way.
To those who knew Jennifer, her beautiful smile and infectious laughter alone we’re reason enough for it to come as no surprise, she was loved by many. Moreover, she was heavily rooted in her family. Spending time with those who appreciated how special she truly was never fell short of being a top priority. Jennifer was never afraid to follow the beat of her own drum, and did so with all the confidence in the world.
Taking comfort and solace in things such as cooking, reading, and musicals she appreciated what life had to offer and embraced it with open arms. Attending the occasional play with her parents, John & Lisa Howard, was always a high point and loved to boast of the enjoyment it brought her. Among others she loved being present at any showing of Phantom of the Opera, never missing the opportunity to attend.
Jennifer is best described as a beautiful, free spirit with a bright mind and golden heart, who brought smiles and laughter to the faces of all lucky enough to know her.
In her passing Jennifer is survived by her children Justin, Jonathon, Harmony, Aaron, Ashley, and Andrew. Her husband Mack (Danny) McGraw. Her parents Valerie Shaw, Scott Shaw, John Howard, and Lisa Howard. Her siblings Megan (Denver) Burton, Erin (Scott) Schultz, Ashley (Don Greene) Shaw, Scott (Megan) Shaw, Josh Shaw, Samantha (Matt) Daniel, Cory (Kayla) Cochran, and Cody (Lindsey) Cochran. As well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
“Grief is like floating in an ocean, swimming when we’re strong and trying not to succumb to strong waves that make us feel as though we’re drowning when we’re not. However life itself is like a river, eventually the destination will be what it must, despite where we want it to go.”
May you find peace in your rest, Jennifer.
Friends may call from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, Saturday, August 8, 2020, at the Hillis, Combs & Nestor Funeral Home, 935 Forest Avenue, Zanesville, where funeral services will follow at 3:00 PM, with Pastor Jeff Howard officiating. Immediately following services a gather of family and friends will be held at the American Legion Post 29, 27 South 3rd Street, Zanesville. Due to current medical conditions social distancing will be maintained, building occupancy will be limited to 60 guests at one time and everyone in attendance is asked to wear a mask. To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsnestor.com.
