Jennifer Biggs Obituary: The Legendary Food Writer Died Due to Colon Cancer

Jennifer Biggs was more than just a food writer. She was a storyteller, a community builder, and a passionate advocate for the Memphis culinary scene. She was also a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, and friend to many. Her death on August 16, 2023, after a two-month battle with stage 4 colon cancer, has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her and admired her work.

A Distinguished Career in Food Journalism

Jennifer Biggs was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. She graduated from the University of Memphis in 1984 with a degree in journalism. She began her career at The Commercial Appeal in 1991, covering various topics such as crime, courts, and entertainment. In 2007, she found her true calling when she became the food editor and restaurant critic for the newspaper. She quickly established herself as a prominent voice in the local food scene, writing insightful reviews, engaging features, and delicious recipes. She also hosted a weekly radio show on WYXR-FM 91.7 FM, where she discussed food news and trends with guests and callers.

In 2018, she joined The Daily Memphian as the chief food and dining writer. She continued to produce high-quality content that showcased the diversity and richness of Memphis cuisine. She also organized public luncheons, podcasts, and events that brought people together over food and conversation. She was known for her authentic and passionate writing style that reflected her love for her city and its food culture.

Jennifer Biggs was not only a respected journalist, but also a mentor and friend to many in the industry. She helped aspiring writers hone their skills and encouraged them to pursue their dreams. She also supported local chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and food artisans by giving them exposure and recognition. She was always eager to learn new things and explore new places, and she shared her discoveries with her readers and viewers.

A Courageous Fight Against Cancer

Jennifer Biggs was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in June 2023, after experiencing abdominal pain and weight loss. She learned that the cancer had spread to her liver, making it more difficult to treat. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy, hoping to extend her life and quality of life.

She was open about her diagnosis and treatment on social media, where she received an outpouring of support from her fans, colleagues, friends, and family. She also wrote candidly about her experience in The Daily Memphian, sharing her fears, hopes, and gratitude. She expressed her determination to fight the disease and to continue doing what she loved.

She wrote:

I’m not giving up on anything. I’m going to keep working as long as I can because I love what I do and I love you for reading it.

She also used her platform to raise awareness about colon cancer and its prevention. She urged people to get screened regularly and to pay attention to their bodies. She said: “Don’t ignore symptoms. Don’t be embarrassed to talk about them. Don’t put off going to the doctor.”

Jennifer Biggs passed away on August 16, 2023, at her home in East Memphis. She was surrounded by her loved ones, including her daughter Megan Biggs, her grandchildren Jack and Chloe, and her mother Jane Biggs.

A Lasting Legacy

Jennifer Biggs left behind a legacy that will be cherished by many who were touched by her work and her personality. She was widely recognized as one of the most influential and beloved food writers in Memphis history. She was also remembered as a bright shining light who brought joy and warmth to everyone she met.

Her colleagues at The Daily Memphian paid tribute to her in a special edition of the newspaper on August 18, 2023. They wrote:

She was our colleague, our mentor, our friend. She was our inspiration, our guide, our cheerleader. She was our Jennifer.

Her fans also expressed their condolences and appreciation on social media, using the hashtag #ThankYouJennifer. They shared their favorite stories, recipes, and memories of Jennifer Biggs. They thanked her for introducing them to new foods, new places, and new perspectives. They thanked her for making them feel like part of a community.

Her family also released a statement thanking everyone for their support and kindness during Jennifer’s illness. They said:

We are overwhelmed by the love and generosity that you have shown us. We are so proud of Jennifer and everything she accomplished. We are so grateful for the time we had with her. We will miss her terribly, but we will always carry her in our hearts.

Quick Summary

• Jennifer Biggs was a native Memphian and a veteran food writer and journalist who covered all things food, dining, and spirits related for The Commercial Appeal and The Daily Memphian.
• She was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in June 2023 and died on August 16, 2023, at her home in East Memphis.
• She was known for her authentic and passionate writing style that reflected her love for her city and its food culture.
• She also hosted a weekly radio show on WYXR-FM 91.7 FM and organized public luncheons, podcasts, and events that brought people together over food and conversation.
• She was a mentor and friend to many in the industry and a supporter of local chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and food artisans.
• She was open about her diagnosis and treatment on social media and in The Daily Memphian, where she also raised awareness about colon cancer and its prevention.
• She left behind a legacy that will be cherished by many who were touched by her work and her personality.

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