In Loving Memory of Jillian Knight Nowak

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jillian Knight Nowak, a beloved sister, daughter, niece, cousin, and friend. Jillian’s short time in this world came to an end on July 29, 2026. She was 23 years young and our world will never be the same without her.

Life asked more of her than it should have. She faced challenges that no one so young should have to endure, yet she met them with extraordinary courage and quiet grace. Even in the face of hardship, she carried herself with kindness and compassion, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Jillian was an incredibly talented artist, who created beauty that reflected the depth of her heart and imagination. If you were fortunate enough to hear her sing, see one of her paintings, or receive one of her drawings, you were entrusted with a piece of her heart—a gift she shared only with those she loved. Her creativity was one of the many quiet ways she made the world more beautiful.

She also found joy in life's simpler moments: she had a deep love for animals and a natural gift for nurturing living things. Some of her happiest moments were spent rollerblading through the streets of Savannah, taking in its beauty and finding peace in the freedom of the open air. She had a gentle spirit that saw beauty in the world, even during life's most difficult seasons.

Jillian is survived by her mother, Kerry, her two sisters, Chloe and Briana, maternal grandparents Susan and Gordon, paternal grandparents Mary and Bill, as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins in a large extended family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Spring Lake Ranch therapeutic community in Vermont. With scholarship support, Jillian lived at Spring Lake Ranch for two years where she found community and compassionate care. In honoring her memory, we hope to pay that kindness forward so others who are struggling might receive the same opportunity for healing and hope. Donations can be made to Spring Lake Ranch’s financial aid fund by visiting https://springlakeranch.givecloud.co/give. Please select “Annual Fund” and type “in memory of Jillian Nowak” in the Dedication widget. You can also send a check to 1169 Spring Lake Road, Cuttingsville, VT 05738.

A celebration of life is planned for Saturday, August 8, 2026. Please reach out to the family for details.