Jill Blodgett

Jill Ann Blodgett

Beloved mother, grandmother, educator, and artist

May 13, 1954 – July 23, 2025

Jill Ann Blodgett, 71, of Traverse City, passed peacefully at home on July 23, 2025, surrounded by the love and presence of her family. She was called home to her Maker and Savior, whom she served with quiet strength and unwavering faith.

Born and raised in Farmington Hills and West Bloomfield, Michigan, Jill was a natural caregiver and nurturer from a young age. She followed her calling into education, earning her Bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University and later her Master’s in Special Education from Oakland University. Jill dedicated her life to teaching children with emotional and developmental challenges in Pontiac, Waterford, and eventually Gaylord Public Schools.

In 1990, Jill settled in Traverse City, where she continued her work as a special education teacher until her retirement from East Middle School in 2012. She had an extraordinary gift for connecting with children, especially those who needed extra guidance, understanding, and compassion. Her classroom was a place of warmth and laughter, where every child felt seen, valued, and safe.

Beyond the classroom, Jill was a gifted artist, especially with watercolor painting, which she embraced fully in retirement. She was also a devoted gardener, creating flower beds and peaceful spaces at her cherished home—affectionately known as “the farm.” It was there that she felt most at peace, surrounded by nature, music, and the people she loved.

Jill’s warmth, humor, and radiant spirit touched everyone she met. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, creativity, and unconditional love.

She is survived by her loving husband, Lee Blodgett, whom she married on February 1, 2003. Together they lovingly restored their 100-year-old farmhouse, creating a sanctuary of love, beauty, and shared dreams.

She is also survived by her beloved son Earl (Caitlin) Peitz; her sister Janis (Jeff) Wrona; her nieces Haly and Courtney Wrona; her brother Gary (Mary) Brynn and their six children; her stepdaughter Laura (Chris) Rossi and grandchildren Wilson and Adam; and her stepson Adam (Bethany) Blodgett and grandchildren Noah and Violet.

Jill was preceded in death by her mother, Betty (Kilberg) Brynn.

A memorial service will be held at Church of the Living God on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at her beloved home, “the farm,” where family and friends will gather to honor her beautiful life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the CJD Foundation, in memory of Jill and in support of continued research and awareness. https://cjdfoundation.org/donate/

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