Keene, NH

Jill A. Christenson died peacefully at home surrounded by family, on April 7, 2020 after a hard-fought battle with cancer. She is survived by her 2 loving children Kayla Christenson and partner Alexe Proctor of Keene, NH and Kyle Latino of Alton Bay, NH; her devoted parents, Carl & Faye Christenson of Alton Bay, NH; Two sisters, Jane Murphy and husband James of Holden, MA, and Cheryl Englehart and husband Merrill of Worcester, MA; 4 grandchildren Kianna Van Valzah, Brayden Van Valzah, Jackson Van Valzah, and Alaylah Van Valzah; 4 neices and nephews, Jackelyn Hoffses and husband Eric, Zachary Englehart, Jake Murphy and wife Nichole, and Samantha Englehart and partner Brady Bryan; a great nephew Tyler Hoffses; and a great niece Tess Hoffses.

Jill was born February 23, 1963 and spent most of her life in Worcester, MA, where she attended North High School, and Salter Secretarial School. She held a few jobs throughout her lifetime, but her favorites were at Abdow's Family Restaurant in Lincoln Plaza in Worcester, and Four Corners Store in Richmond, NH.

Jill was born with spinal bifida and the doctors gave her a grave prognosis at birth, saying she would never walk, live into her 20s, or bear children. Not only did she beat all these odds, but her determination to thrive showed at an early age, when she walked at 10 months old. She battled many surgeries throughout her life, and did so with determination, stubbornness, and grace.

Jill loved nature and spending time outdoors. She cherished the family time on Lake Winnipesaukee, going on boat rides, family nature walks, and hikes up Mount Major. She loved spending time at the beach and swimming in the ocean. She always was on the search for heart shaped rocks, or other natural signs of love wherever she could find it.

Later in life, Jill moved from Worcester, MA to Keene, NH to be close to her children and grandchildren. Her life was devoted to family. She was always there for every family function, from holidays, to birthdays, and even small made up excuses to get together, like Hocus Pocus night. She didn't miss one, even if it meant traveling hours each way.

Jill had a deep sense of spirituality and would often say that God only gives you as much as you can handle. While God did give her the lion's share of obstacles, she became a role model of strength for those around her.

Due to circumstances beyond our control, a private funeral will be held. A celebration of Jill's life will be held in the future and loved ones will be informed.

Cremation care by Peaslee Funeral Home.