Jesse James Whitley

Jesse James “Pops” “Gran-daddy" “J Dub” Whitley, 63, passed away suddenly on May 15, 2023. Even though his heart took him from this world, it is because of his heart that he will forever remain a memory to his family, friends and community.

Born to Ve Ella Sawver and Arthur Whitley in Tennessee, Jesse James graced this earth on September 13, 1959. Befitting of his name, he lived most of his life in a kind of cowboy fashion. In other words, by the seal of his pants. Whatever he wanted to do, he did it and wherever he wanted to go-he went. He was always ready for a good time and being around him meant the good times rolled for everyone,

He had a super power of being unapologetically social. He never met a stranger. He was always willing to help and give; even if it wasn’t his to give. There was never any hesitation to let people know that he was proud of them and that he loved them. People were drawn to his infectious personality and his sharp dressing and sense of humor was second to none, which is credited to having 6 equally fancy and funny siblings.

Being number 5 of seven. Jesse was a kid at heart. He loved telling stories, listening and singing to every genre of music from gospel to country to rap. With his love of music came trying to keep up with the latest dances: mostly to humor the grandkids. Jesse touched everybody's lives and made it a point to make all those he encountered feel important and special. He showed up when it mattered, had your back, and would stand up for his loved ones should the need arise.

Jesse crossed over into ancestry being received by his wife (Mae), his family and friends that watched over him until it was his time to join them. He leaves to cherish in his memory his sibling and his children - Stacy (LaShaunda), Octavia, Deveon, Jesse (Tia) from Michigan, Jasmine (Laron), Jesse Jahmel, Darreal (Liz), Antone, Alicia, Ronald "Junior", God-daughter Sarah (Michael) and a host of grandchildren with a sprinkle of great grands.

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