Jessica Grace Bookwalter, age 7, of Franklin, passed away peacefully at her residence surrounded by her family on April 14, 2017 after a 2 year battle with cancer.

Born February 10, 2010 in Seneca, Jessica was the beloved daughter of Christopher and Michelle Bookwalter.

She was in the First Grade at Central Elementary School.

Jessica loved life and was an active little girl when her health permitted.

She was a member of the Starlite Xpress Baton Twirlers, and was a very active member of the Girl Scouts.

She enjoyed camping, church events at Atlantic Avenue United Brethren in Christ Church, and riding horses at VARHA.

She was an avid baseball fan and her favorite team was the Erie Sea Wolves.

Her contagious smile and two-thumbs up will be forever missed.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her brother, David Matthew Bookwalter; her twin sister, Emily Paige Bookwalter; her dog, Carmel; and her two cats, Sammy and Whiskers. Jessica is also survived by her grandparents, Clinton and Rae Ann Mitchell of Franklin; and Lee and Patricia Bookwalter of Pittsburgh.

Family and friends of Jessica will be received at the Gardinier Funeral Home, Inc., 1315 Chestnut Street, Franklin on Wednesday, April 19, from 3 to 7 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at the Atlantic Avenue United Brethren in Christ Church on Thursday, April 20th at 10 a.m., with Pastor Brad Riddle (Lead Pastor) and Pastor Jason Peterson (Children’s Ministry Pastor), co-officiating.

The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to VARHA — 150 Wagner Avenue, Franklin PA 16323 and/or the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Pittsburgh — 451 44th Street, Pittsburgh Pa 15201.

To send cards, online condolences, or flowers, family and friends are invited to visit www.gardinierfuneralhome.com.