Remembering Jessica Pettway: A Trailblazer in Beauty and Hair Influencing
The beauty and fashion world mourns the loss of Jessica Pettway, a pioneering influencer who inspired countless individuals with her talent, authenticity, and resilience.
At the age of 36, Pettway passed away on March 11, 2024, after a courageous battle with stage three cervical cancer, leaving behind a profound legacy as a trailblazer in the influencer space.
An “OG” Influencer Before the Term Existed
Long before the term “influencer” became a household name, Jessica Pettway was captivating audiences with her expertise in beauty, hair, and fashion.
She was an “OG” influencer, engaging with her followers even before the job had a name. With her YouTube channel boasting over 200,000 subscribers, Pettway’s honest recommendations and versatile style made her a trusted voice in the industry.
“There was nothing that Jessica could not rock. She created magic with her crowning glory, from synthetic and human hair wigs to braids and a natural ‘fro,” wrote ESSENCE writer Shalwah Evans.
A Beacon of Authenticity and Empowerment
Beyond her exceptional talent, Pettway’s authenticity and commitment to empowering others were her true superpowers.
She taught countless individuals how to embrace their natural beauty, encouraging self-love and confidence through her relatable and inspiring content.
“I know from experience that Jessica taught many people how to embrace their hair and be their authentic selves,” said Lauren E. Williams of ESSENCE.
A Brave Battle with Cervical Cancer
In August 2022, Pettway’s life took an unexpected turn when she was rushed to the hospital and received an emergency blood transfusion.
After initially being misdiagnosed with fibroids, Pettway learned in July 2023 that she had stage three cervical cancer, a disease that disproportionately affects Black women.
With courage and transparency, she shared her journey with her dedicated followers, shedding light on the importance of proper medical care and advocating for awareness within the Black community.
“Being told I have cancer didn’t devastate me,” Pettway said in an Instagram post. “It was the reaction of those close to me. I knew that God is my healer and that no weapon formed against me, not even cancer, would prosper.”
A Lasting Legacy of Inspiration
Jessica Pettway’s impact transcended the realms of beauty and hair. Her ability to connect with audiences, relate to all women, and inspire through her authenticity and resilience will forever be her lasting legacy.
As the influencer community mourns her loss, Pettway’s spirit will continue to shine through the countless lives she touched, empowering future generations to embrace their unique beauty and pursue their passions with unwavering determination.
