Jessica L. (Norton) West, 49

HAVERHILL – Jessica L. (Norton) West, 49, of Haverhill, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the High Pointe Hospice House, surrounded by the immense love of her family.

Born, raised, and educated in Haverhill, Jess was the daughter of Harold A. Norton and the late Judith A. (Comeau) Norton. She was a proud graduate of Whittier Vocational Technical High School, Class of 1996.  Talented in her craft, Jess pursued a professional career as a hairdresser. She was adored by her colleagues and clients alike while working at the Hair Factory in Merrimac, The Salon Paul Mitchell in Lawrence, and Salon Savoir Faire in Haverhill. Those fortunate enough to sit in her salon chair could always rely on a trusted ear to confide in, paired with her quick wit, and an abundance of laughter and storytelling. She shared these same wonderful qualities with patrons at the Haverhill Elks Lodge, where she was a fan-favorite bartender and event planner for many years.

Jess was an exceptionally vibrant, beautiful soul with a stunning smile that could illuminate any room, and a contagious laugh that brought light wherever she entered. Known for her rare, deep-seated kindness, she was always the first to help another in need. Jess was a natural unifier who easily turned acquaintances into lifelong friends and strangers into family, holding a special empathy for the lonely or overlooked.

Whether she was painting her entire home, skydiving, or executing a clever prank, Jess met life with an unstoppable, fearless energy. She was the quintessential party planner and hostess who most enjoyed cooking, baking, and entertaining at her home. She also cherished life’s simple pleasures: relaxing by the pool, a good book, yoga, meditation, and fine food & drink. Trips with family and friends to Florida, North Conway, the Saco River, and Las Vegas were among her many memorable, daring excursions.

Above all, family meant everything to Jess. She loved fiercely and protectively, and was a devoted mother to her boys, always present and the first to cheer on their every accomplishment. Her last five years spent alongside her soulmate, Derek, and their family brought her immense joy and beautiful memories. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit remains alive in the quiet, gentle wonders of the world—in the warmth of a sunny day, a passing breeze, and the sudden burst of a rainbow after a storm.

Jess is the incredibly proud mother of Wyatt S. West and Maxwell H. West. She is survived by her brother, Shawn Norton and his wife Nicole, and their daughter Leah; and her life partner Derek Beckwith, along with his children, Jake, Ava, and Emma. She also leaves behind her beloved aunts and uncles, a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended relatives including the Norton, West, Smith, and Comeau families, as well as countless treasured friends, particularly Jessica (Kotuli) Palmer and family.  In addition to her mother, Judy, Jessica was reunited in heaven with her cousins, Renee Bakanosky and Jason Garrett.

Jessica’s family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to her care teams at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, the High Pointe Hospice House, and to all who offered continuous support and love throughout her illness.

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Monday, August 31, 2026, from 4:00 until 7:00 PM at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main Street, Haverhill. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. James Church, 185 Winter Street, Haverhill. Burial will later be held privately at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Haverhill.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to two of Jessica’s most meaningful charitable organizations: Live Free Animal Rescue, 4 Radcliffe Drive, Pelham, NH 03076 (www.livefreerescue.com), where she rescued Lola – or did Lola rescue Jess?, or to: Tough Warrior Princess, P.O. Box 643, Amesbury, MA 01913 (www.toughwarriorprincess.com), which provides unwavering support to cancer patients through wonderful gift baskets, one of which Jessica received and tremendously enjoyed.  

Please visit www.comeaufuneralhome.com or Comeau Funeral Home on facebook