Jennifer Jeanne Connolly

life story

Jennifer Jeanne Connolly, 43, born on December 27, 1981, in St. Paul, MN passed away peacefully after a brave battle with a long illness, February 23, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of Andrew Hedlund and treasured daughter of Patrick and Susan Connolly.

Jennifer grew up in St. Paul and attended Johnson High School, graduating in 2000. She continued her education at the University of Minnesota, Morris, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English. She then went on to earn a Masters in Library Science at St. Catherine University.

Jenni, as she was affectionately known, was a sparkly light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. In 2012 she met the love of her life, Drew Hedlund. They married in 2017 and have been inseparable since. She cherished her family, especially her nephews and niece, and delighted in being an auntie.

Jenni was an insatiable reader and was passionate about literacy. She was a talented and brilliant writer and poet whose work was published and displayed locally. After earning her Masters in Library Science in 2013, Jen’s career was focused around child and young adult literacy. She infused the love of reading in those around her and had a special talent for recommending just the right book.

Jenni embodied love and acceptance, making those around her feel valued and understood. She was dedicated to speaking up for those without a voice and she dreamed of a more equitable and inclusive world.

Jenni found joy in visiting state parks, spending time at the family cabin, rock hunting, traveling, and beaches. She loved attending the opera with Drew, taking in a United soccer match, and the yearly MN State Fair. Her love for long car rides reflected her adventurous and free spirit. With a sharp, funny wit, Jenni was a source of artistic creativity, always making those around her laugh out loud.

Jennifer is survived by her loving husband, Andrew (Drew) Hedlund; parents, Patrick and Susan Connolly; sisters, Katie Connolly and Betsy (Shawn) Watkins; brother, Dan Connolly (Hannah); nephews, Tadhg and Bryn Watkins; niece, Nora Connolly; her in-laws, Lenas and Norma Hedlund; sister-in-law, Kirsten Hedlund; and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She is preceded in passing by grandparents, Thomas and Jeanne Connolly; and Vincent and Patricia Biever; and her beloved dog, Mitchie.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Sunday, March 30, 2025 from 1:00PM until 4:00PM

Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 East County Road F, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127.

We hope you can join us to share memories and reflect on the love and joy Jenni brought into our lives.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.

memorial service

Celebration of Life

March 30, 2025

Vadnais Heights Commons 655 County Rd F E, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127, USA

We hope you can join us to share memories and reflect on the love and joy Jenni brought into our lives.

In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred.