I met Jenny several years ago at a different figure drawing session in Hyattsville. She encouraged me to join her in her new group for figure drawing on the weekends in a Hyattsville town office. From just a few participants, the group blossomed into many of us meeting at the perfect Pyramid Atlantic space she arranged and curated for us. What a welcome we each had when we came together! She made for us a wonderful opportunity to grow as artists. She was kind and gracious and an excellent artist herself. I miss her very much, as do we all.

She was the heart of the drawing group I attended.  Her courtesy and kindness made a difference to me. She was the main reason I attended.  How sad that she is gone!

I will miss her greatly.  I'm extremely grateful for the beautiful community she built, and I'm so lucky to have experiences from figure drawing.

It is truly someone special who can make you feel welcome and accepted with nothing but a smile or simple greeting. Jenny did that and more. I only knew her from the Hyattsville Drawing Sessions she ran, but from day one I counted her among my friends. She immediately made me feel like I belonged there and that I was part of the amazing community she helped build and inspire. What's even more impressive is that I've heard these same words from everyone else who has met her. Jenny's legacy will live on through everyone she has met. She'll be missed every bit as much as she was loved. I'm forever grateful for having gotten to know her in the short amount of time that I have. Rest in peace Jenny.

Dear Jenny 
I met you in Paris one summer long time ago during a shared drawing class at the Beaux Arts. Throughout the years we managed to keep in touch and keep our friendship alive and I was thrilled to see you and Milena  in DC  when I came. Last time I saw you was in 2018 when I stayed in your beautiful house while very much pregnant. I wished we could have met more since in spite of all constraints. I  love you very very much and wish I could have said good bye. All my thought to the Family and to Milena from Paris. Anne-Laure

I met Jenny during a summer program at Rhode Island School of Design in 1999 and really enjoyed spending time with her and getting to know her during that summer.  We have stayed good friends since, and managed to see each other regularly in France where I live, or in the US. She was uniquely bright, fun and had a hilarious sense of humor. I loved going to museums with her. I admired her implication in arts and her hard work. I will miss her kindness, her jokes, her talent, generosity, and friendship.

My condoleances to all who knew and loved her, Milena, her family and her many friends.

Jenny was one of the most beautiful souls I’ve ever met in my whole life. Jenny and I spent a lot of special time together when we were going to the Cleveland Institute of Art. I have many  memories of walking and talking with her about all aspects of life. She had a pure soul and the most kindness heart I’ve ever seen in anyone. She had a way of making her friends feel extra special in her presence. One of my favorite things was watching her know that a friend she cared about were coming to see her and how she would make the experience uniquely special just for them. She had a way of touching people’s spirits that made life fun. I worked with her at the yarn shop in Little Italy. Jenny  was the one that taught me to knit and I have passed craft to my daughters which I am so grateful for.  We had so much fun working together as artist in this yarn shop together. Some of my favorite memories are rolling, beautiful balls of yarn and having the most unique conversations together and with the customers.  My other favorite thing about her was her laugh. She had this way of just making me feel so present and special in that moment when we were together laughing. I’ve been trying all week to remember her laugh.  I feel honored to have known her on this deeper friendship because she has taught me so much of how to treat people on a different level and how to live life by not forgetting to have fun. And lastly,  Jenny’s art talent was unbelievably impressive. She could pick up anything and almost master it. I loved loved loved making art next to her!  My heart is truly changed now that she is gone, but I will be caring her with me for the rest of my life. I miss her so much.

I was only fortunate enough to know Jenny for a few years. In that time with her it was abundantly clear, how talented and passionate she was about art. How dedicated she was to her career. How loyal she was to her friends, family, and the rich community of artists she established through her art practice. But I have to say, I think my favorite thing about Jenny is that she was hilarious. She had great stories, unique observations on life and such an endearing laugh.

I have known Jenny for nearly a decade. I first met her when we were both doing ceramics in UMD's Stamp Student Center. As the years passed, we started holding pottery sales a few times a year in Jenny's front yard---paused for the pandemic--then restarted the events. Jenny made these sales a party event! She was SO incredibly welcoming to all, open, and joyful. I wasn't in Jenny's inner circle, but we shared these sales-days, and broke bread, picked berries, and generally enjoyed life at several others social occasions, too. I was always so in awe of her expertise as a master engraver, and an artist. I am simply undone by her death. The world does not make sense. I will remember Jenny's smile and willingness to engage with everyone.

Jennifer and I went to the Cleveland Institute of Art together.  We often had classes together and she always blew me away with her talent and knowledge of so many things! She was always kind, thoughtful and free of judgement.  
I'm deeply saddened by her passing.  When I think back, I always see her in the little yarn shop in Little Italy.  She shared her passion of fiber arts and taught me how to knit.  I will keep that knowledge dear to my heart, in memory of her.

Tetka Jenny inspiring the next generation of artists.

I am so sorry to hear the news of Jennifer’s passing. My deepest condolences to her family and friends. May her memory bring blessings.
Julie Langsam
(former CIA prof)

Jenny was the heart, soul, and creative spark of my childhood. I am deeply saddened to hear this. My heart goes out to the Axner family and all who love her.

I am so sorry to hear of Jenny's passing.  I knew her from Fine Points where she helped me with many amazing color choices - and I remember her fondly.   I was also privileged to be able to buy one of her art works that was on display there as a gift for a friend.  Please accept my condolences on your loss.

Sarah and Adam, 

I'm so sorry to hear about Jennifer's passing, and we're sending our prayers to you and your family during the difficult time. 

Ken and Jane DeNorscia

I am so very sorry to hear of Jennifer's passing. While it has been many years since we last saw one another, I recall her with fond memories. She was kind, creative, talented, and confident. She was one of my first friends when I started at Hawken School. We ate together daily that first year. While our paths and schedules diverged to separate art forms, I was always impressed with her.

Jenny you will be missed. What a great talent and joy it was to know you. You have touched everyone you have worked with and got to play and converse with, through high school, college and work. You have always been an inventive and creative soul. Once you told me why be sad if it rains on an important day?  Its just what it is. I will think of you always and send grace to your loved ones and family.  You will forever inspire me with my art making and I will think often of your smile and laugh.  Your Friend Kirsten

Sarah, Adam and family,
We are so sad to hear this news and want you to know we are holding you in our hearts and prayers during this extremely difficult time. 
With love and sympathy,
Justine & Kevin

You were one of the best portrait engravers that I have ever worked at the BEP. I will mis our conversations able fine art and engraving techniques to you wanted to try in our future work project. Your legacy with live on as one of the best.

All of us hiding in my studio during a party. Photo courtesy of Jun Lee.

This from the National Museum of African American History and Culture

March 27th 2023

Jennifer was an amazing, talented artist.  Her work on the redesign of US currency was ground-breaking.  Her passing is a loss to all in US Currency Program that had the privilege of knowing and working with her.  i offer my my condolences to her friends and family.  

Len Olijar (former BEP Director)

I remember Jenny very fondly, and I’m sure she will be missed, This photo of her and Milena is from 2007.

I’m in shock right now. Jennie was such a loving soul. She took the time to text me or call me every once in a while after I retired from the BEP. She was a very talented, resourceful, and dedicated craftsman. I knew she would go far.  I will really miss her Texts and pictures; 
Deepest condolences to her partner and her family.  
Dixie Oyster March, Ret. Journeyman L/S Engraver

Jenny was such a sweetheart whenever I saw her at work. She always had the brightest smile that instantly made me feel happy to see her. After the pandemic especially, it was truly a vibe to see each other that first time. Reading all of these wonderful memories of her I wish I spent more time talking to Jenny because she was an absolute treasure. We shared a laugh or two about the sarcastic joys of government work and I was relieved to know we shared the same kind of humor in those moments. I am so very sad to know that I won't get to see her smile again. My heart goes out to her family and loved ones. You all were blessed with an angel. I will miss you Jenny.

C’est avec une immense tristesse que j’ai appris le décès soudain de Jenny.
Je veux m'associer à tous ceux qui prennent part à votre peine. Veuillez recevoir mes condoléances très sincères et croire en mes respectueux sentiments. 
Sarah Lazarevic

Jenny may you read this from heaven’s grace: you will be sorely sorely missed here by us earthlings. It’s a shame that I wasn’t able to talk to you more or say goodbye. You were always special to me and it’s clear Im not alone in that. Now more than ever you really were and are a role model to me as an artist and as a person. May your light keep us warm with your memory. You were and are so deeply loved by us in the art community. Thank you for all that you gave from the bottom of your heart and thank you for helping us become better artists. 🥺😢😞

Dearest Jennifer... the memories of our conversations in the ladies room and hallways on the 7th floor in Washington, DC will forever remain with me. I particularly recall your enthusiasm while sharing about your work trip to Italy and upon your return how much you learned. I used to joke with Joe W. that you both needed a bodyguard outside of work given the nature of your job. 

...Now, as we watch over you from above, I will always remember you and your beautiful smile. You will be missed <3

My deepest sympathies go out to the family.
Sincerely,
Kathryn Gauger - Project Manager

I've been attending the Hyattsville figure drawing group for a year now and it was made magical through Jenny's kindness and welcoming presence. She was always very encouraging and shared her love of art with others. Truly the world is a little darker in her absence.

I met Jen thru the figure drawing classes.  I am a rookie.  She supported and encouraged me. She made a safe space for models and artists. Covid stopped my attendance but she came by my house  to visit, attempt to lure me back and exchange books and treats.  We cared about each other and I think that was true of all her relationships. An aware and connected human and artist, makung the world a better place.
I love her art and her, her spirit and her sense of fun.  I am not the only one.  
This is very hard for me.  I can't imagine what her family and dearly loved ones and circle of pals are enduring.  Her love surrounds you.

Jenny was my partner in crime for outings with the kids when my husband was at work. We had adventures all over the DC area. She loved my boys fiercely and spoiled them absolutely rotten with hugs, candy, and all kinds of special treats. When the kids were younger, we had a giant container filled with diaper supplies and toys that we kept at their house. Dario and Marko adore their Tetka who was always down for a messy art project and said yes to everything (even when I said no 😆).

We loved any reason to get together and celebrate.

Jennifer's cheerful encouragement is so much a part of why I came to and kept coming to the Hyattsville live model figure sketching.  I don't think I could have done it without the welcome and stay for the fun that I received from her.  I will SO miss you Jennifer.

My hilarious, generous, kind, smarty pants friend. You are so loved and missed.

Jenny threw the very best parties. No detail was ever too small. She threw an incredible surprise birthday party for Sandy earlier this year - it was a riot and we laughed so hard all night. All the decorations and games were BB themed!

Jennifer was a shining light to all who knew her and one of the kindest and most genuine souls I have ever met. She was a talented  and accomplished artist who shared her passion of art through the community figure drawing group in Hyattsville. She will undoubtedly be greatly missed by all who were blessed to have met her.  My condolences to her partner Milena and her family and all who knew and loved her. RIP Jennifer

Jenny had such a kind and inviting spirit. I'll miss her warmth.

What a loss, such a beautiful kind human Jennifer❤️😢😢😢

This is devastating news.  I have not been in contact with Jenny since high school and I sure wish I had been.   She was such a kind, funny, creative and accepting person.  I have so many memories of being with her in the art room at Hawken.  It was amazing to read about her career in engraving.  I send her friends and family so much love and light at this time.  What a loss.

I've been attending Jennifer's figure drawing group in Hyattsville for the past 2 years, and each week she was the sweetest and most welcoming person to new members. She was so full of light and positivity and she always gave a thoughtful response to my questions and she encouraged my creativity with zero judgement.  Her drawing group made a tremendous positive impact on my life, and I'm sure that many others feel the same way - friends and family should be proud of the community of artists that Jennifer built. I'm glad that I got to meet Jennifer and I will miss her greatly.

My deepest heartfelt condolences to Jenny's family at her loss. I met her through our employment with the Bureau of Engraving. 
She was a beautiful soul and her presence will be missed.

I wish I had words for this. I don't. Jenny was my friend and I love her fiercely. She was all the things people will say - brilliantly talented and diligent with her drawing practice, an advocate and community builder, a ray of sunshine that made you feel good and welcome. But right now she is most importantly my friend who I miss so much. Sending love to all who knew her.

I thought she looked absolutely amazing this day. I absolutely loved the color on her. She asked me…. Is this too bright???  No ma’am you looking amazing!!

She did not like the boat!!! Luckily the captain set sail before she could escape

Tenerife… at night….looking at the stars while freezing … luckily she drove that day because I couldn’t see anything through the fog

I am heartbroken at the loss of my dear dear friend. Some of my most favorite memories are us just sitting on her porch. She had an amazing ability to connect with people and it is  because of her I know so many absolutely incredible people. My life will forever be blessed by hers.  I am so grateful for all the times we shared. My most heart felt condolences are extended to her family and all who love and cherish.

We met in New York City were I came for a business trip in 2011.

I believe this was in 2007. When I visited Jenny in D.C.

A lunch we had in 2004 not long after graduation.

I still smile when I think of my wedding day and  Jenny catching that bouquet and we were all teasing her that the boy had to put the garter on her. Her little giggle and shaking her head "Oh no,no no" Jenny had the best giggle and laugh!❤️

OBITUARY

Jennifer Elizabeth Axner

23 October, 1979 – 15 April, 2024

Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel

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