Jessica Stonely

Jessica Stonely (90), a long-time resident of Edgewood, KY, died on December 21 at St Elizabeth Hospice. Born in Loughborough, England, Jessica emigrated to the United States in 1959, where she became a permanent resident and then a citizen. She was married to Clifford Stonely until he passed away unexpectedly on December 26, 1988. Known to most as a dynamic redhead with a British accent and a gracious manner, Jessica grew up during WWII, surviving the bombing of Britain before becoming a well-known singer and actress in London musical theater in the 1940s and early 50s. At the age of 16, she earned her Associate Degree from the London College of Music, the youngest in the country to do so at that time. As a young mother in Roselle Park, NJ, she was active in the Foreign Wives Club, the La Leche League, the Girl Scouts, and other organizations. After moving to KY, Jessica was involved in community theater, directing and acting in many plays, while also working as a fashion coordinator for Sears, as a clothing salesperson (alongside actor George Clooney) for McAlpin’s department store, and as a photographer’s assistant. In her later years, she enjoyed time with family and friends, watching old movies, and knitting. She will be remembered for her big smile, her kindness and generosity to others, her charm, and sense of humor—as well as her good looks, which were evident right up until the end. She is survived by her three children, Martin Stonely (Ann Labriola), Alison Russell (Byron Russell), and Richard Stonely; her grandchildren Justin Bowen (Kristen Bowen) and Kyle Richardson; her three great-grandchildren, Peyton, Riley and Leo Bowen; and her sister Ann Hughes. The family will hold a memorial service at a later time. Memorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Cincinnati.