Jenneh Elizabeth Rishe's Obituary
Jenneh Elizabeth Rishe (nee Bockari) passed away on April 14, 2026. Born in Willingboro, New Jersey, she was 39 years old.
Jenneh was the beloved wife of Joseph David Rishe for seven years; cherished daughter of Agnes R. Bockari and Richard L. Bockari; loving sister of Julie Strong (Kyle) and Richard I. Bockari; and adoring aunt to her nieces, Jada Strong, Rylee Strong, and Payton Rishe. She is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and dear friends both in the United States and in Sierra Leone, West Africa. She shared a special bond with her best friend, Allison Wise, and her beloved cat, Jordan.
Jenneh was a vibrant, athletic, and spirited woman who embraced life fully. She had a love for running, attending concerts, and enjoying her favorite foods—pizza and French fries. She was deeply involved in athletics throughout her life, participating in cheerleading, dance, lacrosse, track and field, and cross country, though she would jokingly admit basketball was not her strength. She also had a passion for fashion and enjoyed scenic drives, especially along the coast in Malibu, California.
A proud graduate, Jenneh attended Corpus Christi School, graduating in 2000, Holy Cross High School, Class of 2004, and La Salle University, Class of 2008. After college, she lived in Philadelphia before moving to Los Angeles, where she met her husband, Joe, and formed many lasting friendships. The couple married in California and spent most of their relationship there, before returning to Philadelphia to be closer to family and friends.
Jenneh was a fierce advocate for those living with chronic illness, dedicating much of her life to raising awareness for women’s health, particularly endometriosis. Her advocacy reached a national audience—she was featured in the documentary Below the Belt, produced by Hillary Clinton and Rosario Dawson, and appeared on programs including The Today Show, Dr. Phil, and The Tamron Hall Show. She also authored Part of You, Not All of You, a guided journal offering support and encouragement to those navigating chronic illness.
Her commitment to change extended to the national stage, where she participated in Senate meetings with policymakers including Senators Mitt Romney and Elizabeth Warren, advocating for improved awareness, research, and care in women’s health.
Although Jenneh spent many years struggling through health issues, she never lost hope, and never lost her faith in Jesus. Jenneh will be remembered for her strength, compassion, resilience, and the profound impact she made on the lives of so many. Her legacy of advocacy, love, and hope will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, May 2nd, from 9 am to 11 am at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 201 Veterans Parkway, Willingboro, NJ. A service will begin at 11 am. The service will be livestreamed (https://www.viewlogies.net/givnish/u-ZtVefHp?pin=277412). Please wear your favorite nice outfit (no black), as if this was a celebration hosted by Jenneh herself. We all know she loved fashion.
Following the service, a repass will be held at Touch of Class, 3001 Route 130 S., Delran, NJ 08075.
Those wishing to make a donation in Jenneh’s memory are kindly asked to contribute to her charity at this link: https://www.theendo.co/donate
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