Jennifer “Jill” Codington Campbell, of Hershey, PA, passed away on Dec. 5, 2025, in Lebanon, PA, at the age of 81.
Jill was born in Plainfield, NJ, and was raised on the family dairy farm in Glen Gardner, NJ. After graduating with a BS from Lebanon Valley College, she married her college classmate, Richard Campbell. Her first job was as a math teacher at Annville-Cleona High School, followed by an inventory manager at Colebrook Terry, Colebrook, PA, and later a bank teller. In 1983, she and Rich moved to Hershey, PA, where she lived until 2020.
Being raised on a dairy farm gave Jill a lifelong love of animals, especially horses and cats. She was active in both dairy and horse 4-H clubs. As a 57-year member of the Derry Presbyterian Church in Hershey, Jill volunteered in many capacities, including singing in the choir and going on home visitations. She also volunteered at the Hershey Food Bank. Jill’s love of travel took her to many parts of the U.S., Canada, and four continents. Every summer, she spent time with her sister, Susan, and her family in New Hampshire. When Susan would visit her each January, they loved going to the Pennsylvania Farm Show, where they vicariously relived their childhood on the farm.
Jill loved her friends and family with all of her heart. Her last few years were a struggle with the downhill path of dementia, but all through that, Jill remained true to her good nature and was cheerful and eager to please. Jill lived a faithful life full of kindness and generosity. Her friends and family will miss her dearly.
Jill is preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and William Codington. She is survived by her sister, Susan Stepp (Tom Stepp); niece, Allison Stepp; nephew, Morgan Stepp (Lindsey Stepp); and their children, Harper and Louisa, all residents of New Hampshire. She also leaves behind her close friends, Phil Brandt, Bill Sharrow, and Richard Campbell.
In lieu of flowers, any memorial gifts can be made to the Derry Presbyterian Church in Hershey, The Care Team (Hospice Care), or the charity of your choice. A memorial service is being planned for next year at the Derry Presbyterian Church.
