Johnny jr Wilkins

Jennell Jaquays

Oct 13, 1956 - Jan 09, 2024

Seattle, WA

In Memory of Jennell Jaquays October 14, 1956 - January 10, 2024 Jennell Jaquays, a luminary in tabletop design and video game development, left an indelible mark on the gaming world before her passing on January 10, 2024, in Seattle. Born on October 14, 1956, in Michigan, she reshaped the landscape of gaming with her creative genius and tireless advocacy. Best known for her groundbreaking contributions to Dungeons & Dragons during the heyday of TSR and other leading publishers, Jaquays revolutionized tabletop gaming with iconic adventures like Dark Tower and Caverns of Thracia. Her unparalleled game design and artistic prowess set a new standard for the industry, earning her acclaim and admiration from fans worldwide. Beyond tabletop gaming, Jaquays made significant strides in video game development, collaborating with esteemed companies like Chaosium and id Software. Her work in converting arcade classics such as Pac-Man and Donkey Kong to console versions showcased her versatility and innovation in the gaming sphere. Jaquays's legacy extends beyond her creative endeavors. As creative director of the Transgender Human Rights Institute, she was a fierce advocate for trans rights, spearheading initiatives like Leelah’s Law, which led to the federal banning of conversion therapy amongst minors in the US. Her impact on the gaming community and society at large earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Academy of Adventure Gaming Arts & Design Hall of Fame in 2017. Her contributions to Dungeon magazine's list of the greatest D&D adventures of all time and nominations for the H.G. Wells award attest to her enduring influence. In remembrance of Jennell Jaquays, fans and players fondly recall her Savage Frontier book, Campaign Sourcebook, and Catacomb Guide, which continue to inspire and enrich gaming experiences. Her spirit lives on in the countless worlds she helped create and the lives she touched with her advocacy and creativity. As we mourn the loss of a visionary and trailblazer, let us honor Jennell Jaquays's legacy by continuing to celebrate diversity, creativity, and inclusivity in gaming and beyond. May her memory be a source of inspiration and empowerment for generations to come. Rest in peace, Jennell. Your light will forever shine brightly in the realms of imagination and beyond.