Jessica Pitford

Jessica Pitford, 46, of Kahoka, passed away Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City surrounded by those who loved her.

Jessica was born May 18, 1980, the daughter of Tim and Bobbette (Johnson) Spurgeon. She graduated from Clark County R-1 High School with the Class of 1998. She continued her education at Indian Hills Community College, where she earned her associate degree. She later earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Missouri in 2003 and went on to earn her master’s degree in administration.

On November 29, 2003, Jessica was united in marriage to Travis Pitford. Together, they built a beautiful life and family centered around their children, Tristen and Emma.

More than anything, Jessica was a devoted mother. Tristen and Emma were her whole world. Her greatest joy was being their mom, and so much of her life revolved around loving them, supporting them, encouraging them, and being there for every moment she possibly could. She was incredibly proud of them, and the love she had for her children was evident to everyone who knew her.

Jessica worked as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and retired in January 2022. She was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ in Kahoka.

Jessica was the sweetest, most thoughtful, and spunky person anyone could have known. With her signature red lipstick, beautiful smile, and a little bit of sass, she had a way of lighting up every room she entered. She had the kindest heart, and life with Jessica was a wonderful adventure. She brought happiness, laughter, and love wherever she went.

She was also one of the strongest people you could ever know. Even throughout the incredibly difficult last few years, Jessica faced each day with remarkable strength and courage. Through it all, she continued to wear that beautiful smile that meant so much to everyone who loved her.

Jessica was crowned Miss Clark County, an honor that became much more than a title to her. She carried her love for pageants forward by encouraging and supporting young women throughout Clark County and the surrounding area. She continued to give back by chairing pageants in Clark County, helping other young women experience the same opportunities and memories that had meant so much to her.

In her final days, Jessica was honored during Pink Night at a Clark County softball game. In an especially touching moment, she threw out the ceremonial first pitch to her daughter, Emma, delivering a strike. Surrounded by the community that loved her, Jessica shared a moment with her daughter that beautifully reflected what mattered most to her: her family, her community, and the people she loved.

Among her many accomplishments, one she was especially proud of was receiving a proclamation from the Governor of Missouri declaring October 13 as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. Her efforts helped bring greater awareness and recognition to those affected by metastatic breast cancer.

Jessica is survived by her husband, Travis Pitford; her children, Tristen Pitford and Emma Pitford; her parents, Tim and Bobbette Spurgeon; her brother, Levi Spurgeon and his wife, Erica; her father- and mother-in-law, Tom and Debbie Pitford; her sisters-in-law, Stacia (Clint) Briscoe and Lana Dougherty; her brother-in-law, Levi (Melissa) Pitford; her nieces and nephews, Evie Spurgeon, Waylon Spurgeon, Carter Briscoe, Caylee Briscoe, Maci Dougherty, Tuff Pitford and Gunnar Pitford; her paternal grandparents, Chet and Pat Spurgeon; along with aunts, uncles, extended family, and the many friends who loved and adored her, especially her “Tribe,” who held a very special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Alan and Jackie Johnson, brother-in-law, Ryan Dougherty and uncle, Rob Garkie.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Kahoka, with Pastor Dan Moore officiating. Burial will follow at Kahoka Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church with the family greeting friends during this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites friends to honor Jessica’s memory in ways that reflect her love for her family and her desire to make a difference in the lives of others. Memorials may be made to help support Tristen and Emma’s education, through the donation of children’s books to be shared with children in Jessica’s memory, or to METAvivor to support awareness and research for metastatic breast cancer. Each of these gifts is a meaningful way to celebrate Jessica’s life, carry forward the causes she cared about, and keep her love and legacy alive for years to come.

Arrangements are under the direction of Vigen Memorial Home in Kahoka.