Joshua Aaron Jennings, of Havre de Grace, MD, passed away on January 18, 2021 at just 29 years of age. Josh was born on October 16, 1991 in Rosedale, MD. He is survived by Anthony Jennings and Toni Bernardi Forton, he was predeceased by his stepfather of 28 years Michael “Tony” Forton. He was the proud father of Joshua Jennings, Zairaney Jennings and Ella Jennings. The brother of Brittany Jennings (Dan Turner), Delaney Jennings and Billy Lamana. He was the uncle of Hayden Jennings, Kyleigh Turner and Remington Turner, Grandson of Debbie Gobble, the late Harold Gobble and the late Frank and Clara Bernardi. Beloved nephew to Francis Thomas, Frank Bernardi II and Sandra Husfelt. Cousin to Ashley Macre, Alex Waltemyer, Christopher Donahoo and Kaitlyn Husfelt. Significant other to Sarah Ashley and like a father to her children, Liliana Mauck and John Reed IV.
Josh loved all sports. He was an avid Baltimore Orioles and Tennessee Titans fan. He loved his children, playing basketball with his childhood friends and having movie night and nerf wars with his nieces and kids.
The ugly truth is, many saw Josh through the lens of addiction which he battled for years. That wasn’t the real Josh though and those fortunate enough to truly know him knew he was a Momma's boy, a friend that would be there in a heartbeat, he ended conversations with those he cared for with “I Love You's” and considered his close friends brothers and sisters.
Josh struggled with mental health most of his life. His family struggled through his lows right there with him. Josh hated the thought of hurting his loved ones and often said one day there would be more to this life for him. Josh often reached out for help, he attended rehab multiple times and left a little stronger each time. Unfortunately, with addiction, the demons inside are often stronger than the person.
I, his big sister, ask you to write a note about Josh and reach out to give it to someone struggling to let them know they aren't alone and there is a way out. Educate yourself and people around you about mental health and addiction. Always remember, addiction does not discriminate. Nobody asks or wants to be an addict so let's try to stop the stigma. Josh is now at peace and will be deeply missed by all.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 6, 2021, from 11am until 1pm at Zellman Funeral Home, P.A., 123 S. Washington St, Havre de Grace, MD. Funeral services will be held at 1 PM. Interment will be held at Mt. Erin Cemetery.
Online condolences may be at www.zellmanfuneralhome.com.