​Jessica Theresa Dowdy, 43, of Milford, passed away on August 6, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Jessica Theresa Dowdy, 43, of Milford, beloved wife of KaNard Dowdy, passed away on August 6, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on June 19, 1982, she was the daughter of Carl Artz (Carmen) and the late Mary Ellen Artz.

Jessica was a beautiful soul whose quiet strength and gentle spirit touched all who knew her. As a dedicated mail carrier for the USPS and the primary administrator for her husband’s transportation business, she brought grace and reliability to everything she did. Jessica’s love for her children and extended family was the heart of her life, and her kindness, purity, and selfless nature will be remembered always. Her presence was a gift, and her memory will forever be cherished.

Jessica is survived by her husband, KaNard; her children, Josiah L. Cartagena, Daniel S. Cartagena, Tatyana T. Cartagena, and Aliya B. Dowdy; her bonus children, Tyler J. Dowdy, Destiny M. Dowdy-Glaizer, Adrianna L. Dowdy, MaKayla T. Dowdy, and Kanard J. Coddington; three bonus grandchildren; her father, Carl, and stepmother, Carmen; her sisters, Samantha (Mike), Sara (Kyle), and Stephanie; many nieces and nephews; and numerous aunts, uncles, and extended family.

Friends and family may call from 12pm to 4pm on Friday, August 15, 2025 at the CODY-WHITE FUNERAL HOME, 107 BROAD ST., MILFORD, CT. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Go Fund Me in Jessica’s memory. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.

Notes from her children:

From Josiah:

My mother was a strong and powerful woman who always did her best for her kids. She was one of the toughest people I’ll ever know, and because of that, we will carry on her legacy. Love you, Mom.

From Tatyana:

The most beautiful and kindest woman. Also, the best mom I could express having, and I will miss her dearly.

From Daniel:

Dear Mother,

There’s only so much I can say about you in just a small paragraph. I couldn’t have asked for a better mom—you were there for me through every single storm, from when we were kids to when we were teenagers. I have nothing but great memories with you. When I had my appendix out, you were right there next to me the whole way. You took me to every single baseball practice, brought me to hang out with my friends, and made sure I socialized and treated everyone with respect. Reality is one son of a xxx. If I had known you had such a poker face, I would’ve brought you to the casino the moment I turned 21. It might not be anytime soon, but I’ll see you again—along with that beautiful long blonde hair you always wanted back, and that smile I’ll never forget. I love you so much, and I truly appreciate everything you taught me and did for me as my mom. I’ll miss our quick little smoke sessions and our talks about my lizards or weed.

From Aliya:

I love you, Mom, and I’m happy you’re not suffering anymore.