Obituary of Jennifer Elaine Graga

Jenny passed away on Monday, July 28, 2025 surrounded by her family, following a devastating illness she faced with strength, humor, and grit.

Born right in the middle of the Generation X years, Jenny spent more time in the woods of Howell than she preferred. Any chance she got, she snuck back inside to crochet and watch Little House on the Prairie reruns. Despite her disdain for the great outdoors, Jenny married Rich, her high school sweetheart and an unapologetic nature-lover. Together they built a joyful, loud, loving home in rural Farmingdale.

She and Rich went on to raise their children with fierce love and loyalty. Jenny and Rich built a tight-knit family of kind-hearted sons—Richard Jr. (Jackson), Michael, and Aaron—and bold, brilliant daughters—Megan and Emma-Jean, all of Farmingdale. Jenny had a gift for calm in the chaos. She gave expert-level advice, fierce protection, and endlessly creative meals. She was a skilled crocheter whose generous, beautiful blankets now live in the homes of her family and friends. When her kids got older, she loved taking them out to explore foods from different cultures. She once hosted an unforgettable ravioli-making party and a legendary night of homemade Chile Rellenos.

Jenny was a longtime member of Jackson Baptist Church, where she formed deep, cherished friendships over the years.

In addition to her adoring children, she leaves behind her devoted husband of 33 years, Rich, and her beloved grandchildren, Maggie and Micah, who brought more light and joy than she ever imagined possible. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law Amanda (Michael), and Richie's partner, Mara, both of whom she loved as her own. Her father, Charles Michael Ott of Hebron, Maryland, and her sisters, Christine Ott of Hamilton and Karen Ott Arena of Stratford, also survive her—as do her nephews Eric Arena and Matthew Cullen. Jenny also enjoyed a close relationship with her mother and father-in-law, Jean and Bob Graga; brother-in-law, Bob (Danielle); sisters-in-law, Debbie (Pete), and Dawn (Brian), as well as nieces and nephews Natalie, Dominic, Pete, Greta, Wyatt, and Silas. She will also be missed by aunts, uncles, and cousins, who loved her very much.

Jenny was predeceased by her mother, Margaret Ott, and her niece, Catherine Cullen.

Because parents of Gen Xers were typically disinclined to believe in allergies, Jenny was nearly a adult before she realized part of her trouble with the external world was that she was allergic to many common substances found out there, including animal dander. Though Jenny adored dogs, her intense allergies made pet ownership tricky. But eventually, once the hypoallergenic doodle varieties gained traction, she gave it a go—first with Bella, then with Kao, Gimly, Rosie, and sweet Clementine, who kept a quiet vigil at Jenny's side during her final days.

Cancer is a marauding, pillaging monster—and when it decides to kill, it often does, regardless of how bravely you fight or how hard your family pushes for more time. But someday, hopefully we will gain the upper hand. In Jenny's memory, and in hope of that better future, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, HERE. A memorial gathering will be held at the Jackson Baptist Church, 360 Bennetts Mills Road, Jackson on Sunday, August 10, 2025 from 3:00 to 6:00 PM. For information, directions or to leave condolence messages to the family, please visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com .