Jessica Ida Pollins

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jessica Ida Pollins, age 41, of Arlington MA, who passed away suddenly on August 29, 2025 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Jess was born in Waltham, MA and throughout her life she was known for her creative spirit and unwavering love for her family. She was a devoted Mother, daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, cousin and friend.

Jess was raised in Lexington, MA where she was passionate about sports and activities including dance, figure skating, gymnastics, basketball and softball. Whether she was on the court, the field, or the stage, she gave her all and made lasting memories with those around her. Music and travel always played a big part in Jess' life, she enjoyed playing the keyboard, guitar and attending numerous concerts over the years. She was an artist at heart from a young age. Her travels brought her to places like Costa Rica, Aruba, Italy, Amsterdam, Ireland and many other destinations.

Jess graduated from Lexington High School in 2002. After high school, Jess made a bold decision to move to Alaska to accept a position at a resort. Her free spirit and love for the outdoors was truly her happy place, while there, she enjoyed hiking in Denali National Park. Shortly after, she attended classes at Middlesex Community College and later went on to study at Le Cordon Bleu Culinary School, where she earned her certificate in 2013. She enjoyed her craft in cake artistry, also enjoyed creating specialized pastries for restaurants in the Arlington/Cambridge area. Jess was employed at Wilson's Farm as a cake artist for over 10 years, whose artistic skill and attention to detail brought joy to countless birthdays, celebrations and special occasions. She poured love into every creation and her work was a reflection of her generous and expressive spirit.

Jess was happiest exploring nature with her daughter, Ayani, hiking up mountains and sleeping under the stars, especially at Baxter State Park. Jess and Ayani took endless trips together, they drove to the top of Mount Washington and took road trips throughout the east coast. Traveling to St.Thomas, St. Martin, Disney and Miami Beach were memories that will be treasured forever.They enjoyed their annual trips to the beach house and you could always find them at our weekly family Thursday night dinners. Her daughter was her greatest joy, proudest accomplishment and best friend, and their bond brought light and laughter to every day of her life.

In Jess' own words, "I love exploring with my daughter on our adventures, I've been in the food and hospitality industry for over 20 years, I love helping people, I live spontaneously, I LOVE live music, especially reggae, I practice yoga and meditation, I love being outdoors, road trips are my jam, I enjoy being creative, I can ice a cake like no body's biz, I love the beach vibes, I've camped in multiple National Parks & countless State Parks and Forests."

Jess was an extremely generous and caring person and her family and friends always knew they could count on her for anything and everything. She lived boldly, loved deeply and shared her light freely. That spirit will continue to shine through Ayani and in the hearts of everyone blessed to have shared in her journey.

While her passing leaves an immeasurable loss for Ayani and her family, her love will continue to guide and surround them always. Jess is survived by her beloved daughter, Ayani, 15, who was the light of her life. She is also survived by her loving mother, Judy (Casello) Pollins and (Ken) of Lexington, MA, her loving father, David Pollins of Arlington MA, her devoted sisters, Ashley (Bruce) and Lauren (Ben) and her cherished grandmother, Catherine Casello of Lexington, MA. Her family, along with many friends and loved ones, will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

Family and friends are invited to gather for Visiting Hours on Friday, September 12th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Douglass Funeral Home, 51 Worthen Road, Lexington, MA 02421. A Celebration of Jessica's life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will be invited to gather, share memories, and honor her spirit.

Her family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support in this difficult time. For those wishing to help, a fund has been created to support the education and future of her daughter, Ayani: https://www.gofundme.com/f/LegacyforJess