Jessica Lea Jaffari

Jessica Lea Jaffari, 47, of Jefferson City, died Thursday, December 8, 2011, at St. Mary's Health Center. She was born September 21, 1964, in Jefferson City, a daughter of Carl E. and Jeanne Rutledge. She was a 1983 graduate of Jefferson City High School and attended college at Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg and Lincoln University. She became a veterinary technician in Memphis, Tenn., and had a life-long love of all animals. She enjoyed all outdoor activities particularly camping, fishing and gardening. In recent years she developed an artistic talent and an aptitude for creating wildflower crafts; she sold many of her pieces of art in Columbia. Survivors include her parents of Jefferson City and two sisters, Julie Schulte of Jefferson City and Leslie Moyer and husband, Alan of Hulbert, Okla. She is also survived by four nieces and one nephew, whom she adored. Private family services will be held in the future. Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army or the Jefferson City Animal Shelter. Arrangements are under direction of the Columbia Cremation Care Center.