CHATSWORTH, Calif. — Last night, friends and colleagues gathered in an intimate ceremony to celebrate the life of performer Jessica Jaymes, who passed away on September 17.
Hosted by industry veteran Kelly Holland, the event was a moving tribute to a performer and beloved personality who touched the lives of everyone in attendance.
Kayla Paige, Joanna Angel and Julia Ann helped to arrange the flowers, food and drinks in what longtime industry photographer Chris King, reporting for XBIZ, described as “a big spread to bring everyone together.”
This was King’s report from the memorial:
There were about 100 people, all close to Jessica. We went to the Kelly’s yard, where she usually has the 'Vice Is Nice' auctions, and we had a heartfelt ceremony. Joanna gave a beautiful speech, she got really teared up and it was wonderful to see her and Small Hands supporting each other. Kayla and Kelly made speeches and also [adult journalist] Peter Warren and Tee Reel, who gave a moving remembrance that touched everyone.
Jessica’s former husband, Nadir [from Spizoo] came up. They had been separated for awhile and he was in shock. He was very moved, and said he was not familiar with funerals and that this was all new to him.
Tee Reel, Tommy Gunn, Riley Steele, Mark Kramer, Marcus London, Rusty Nails and Brittany Andrews were some of the noted performers and industry members who paid their respects.
A pianist played an incredible sonata that lifted the room and honored Jess. She would have loved it.
As for myself, I just want to say that Jess touched everyone’s lives that she was around. I met her before her contract at Hustler in 2004; we were really close. The biggest thing that stood up to me at the memorial was that everyone said how personal she was, how meaningful it was when you were around her. It was heartfelt and meaningful — and crazy! Everyone had great stories.
It was sad and beautiful. Sad that she’s no longer here, and it was beautiful to hear these stories. In the middle of pouring out tears, people would shake their heads and crack up at the crazy things she would do.
What I remember is that she’d always remember your kids, their names, and ask how they were doing.