Jessica M. Fruit

Jessica Marie Fruit was a wonderful friend, an incredible mother, and the perfect wife. 

Jessica was born on January 14, 1974 to the late Nancy Pokki and Phillip Root who she inherited her love of animals, sense of humor, creativity, and warmhearted nature from.Jessica spent her early years in Colrain, MA, before moving to Gardner, and eventually settling in Templeton, MA. She graduated from Narragansett Regional High School in 1992. It was in Templeton where Jessica would live with her first husband and have her three beloved children. 

Jessica took the long route towards her dream career in social work. She started at Mount Wachusett Community College, taking a long gap between studies to focus on her family. She spent her time working at North Central Human Services, Alternatives Unlimited, CSO, and finally, at Open Sky. 

Though it took some time, Jessica finally earned her Master of Social Work degree from Anna Maria College in 2019. Through her career Jessica made many incredible friends. Friends who were there for the wonderful days, and the really tough days. 

It was in 2010 where Jessica would meet the man who would become the love of her life: Matthew Fruit. On May 18, 2019, Jessica and Matt married in a private ceremony out in Las Vegas. 

Jessica spent her life finding joy and humor in every situation she faced. Whether that was being “forgotten” in New York, chasing her silverware and sock stealing dogs, or just making way too much food for a small gathering. She’ll be remembered for her fierce loyalty and her incredible art. 

Jessica is survived by her husband Matt, her daughter Kelsea Filleul and long term partner Emmett Hartland, her son Noah Filleul, her daughter Olivia Frasca and husband Kyle with their soon to arrive son Elijah, and her step-son Patrick Fruit. Jessica is also survived by her step-father Henry Pokki, sisters Heather Root and Janella Stokinger, brother-in-law Kurt Stokinger, her niece Ashden, nephew Camden, mother-in-law Paula Fruit, sister-in-law Sarah Clark, brother-in-law Keith Clark, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

In honor of her final wishes, there will be a funeral service at 10 AM on Saturday June 29, 2024, at Mack Family Funeral Home, 105 Central St. Gardner, MA. Following the service, we will meet at the Gardner Elks Club at 11 AM to celebrate the life of Jessica. All are welcome. Gardner Elks Address: 31 Park Street Gardner, MA 

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.