Jessica Shiela Leger, 71, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 24, 2025, at St. Vincent Hospital after a brief illness. She lived a life marked by creativity, service, and a profound devotion to those all around her. This will be leaving a tremendous hole in the hearts of her family and all who loved her.
She was born on June 26, 1954 in Fitchburg, MA, to parents Bernard Racine and Fleur Ange (Gagne) Racine. She attended St. Joseph’s Elementary School and went on to graduate from St. Bernard's High School. She received an Associate's Degree in Human Services from Mount Wachusett Community College.
Jessica cherished her friendships, but nothing was more important to her than her family. She leaves behind her husband of 52 years, Donald Leger. They met and fell in love at first sight and have enjoyed a memorable life together. Her son Lucas Leger and his wife Nadine gave her grandchildren Elexis, Nolan and Reese of Westminster, MA. Her daughter Marisa King and her husband Zak are parents of Jocelyn, Elise and Mason, rounding out her six grandchildren. Her sister Linda and her husband Bob Perry of Boylston, MA were a constant source of support. Her nephews, Jason Perry (Kelly), Ryan and Adam (Jen) Perry and their families who meant a lot to her. Her cousin, Billy of Nashua, NH, who was her brother in all the ways that mattered growing up. Her nieces, Jill Mygatt (Brian), Hollybeth Runco (Tom) and Jody (Mark) Lech all held a special place in her heart. She is reunited with her parents, her sister Sandy Normandin, and many beloved family members and friends who passed away before her.
Jessica possessed an extraordinary artistic spirit—her eye for color was unmatched, and her quilting talents were admired by many. She was known for creating beautiful, vibrant pieces and generously gave her time and skill to make quilts for charities and hospitals. She also loved sharing her work and inspiration with others in the quilting community. She was a member of the Material Girls, Concord Picemakers and Quilters’ Connection quilt guilds. She shared her creations as “The Selvedge Queen” sharing her story and inspiration to use all pieces of fabric to make amazing quilts, jackets and other creations.
She served the Town of Westminster with insight and dedication, especially in her six years as a Selectman. Her commitment to preserving local history led her to volunteer with the Westminster Historical Society, and she also volunteered as a docent for 20 years with the Fitchburg Art Museum (FAM). Her willingness to give back seemed endless—so much so that those who knew her are sure there were more acts of service than can be remembered at once.
Honoring her wishes, there will be no funeral. Instead, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to remember her kindness, creativity, and the immeasurable love she shared.