I was saddened to hear of Jesse's passing. I worked with Jesse from '00 - '05, and then again either '07 or '08. I remained his friend and still came to visit him every time I came back to TN to visit around Christmas time. We'd laugh and pick on one another and just like others who knew Jesse knew he would show he cared about ya if he picked on ya. I will share a funny story from my time working at the cemetery about him.
Jesse was my boss around this time. This was around '04. I had a plan to make everyone's Christmas special so I was playing like I was having car trouble all week. I'd call in, show up a little late, complained about this problem that didn't exist just to sell it. I think this was Christmas Eve, I told him I was showing up a little late but was actually in the cemetery waiting for one more person to show up. I was dressed in a full Santa Clause outfit. I then came ringing jingle bells and yelling ho ho ho! The look on his face was priceless. I heckled each person, gave them all a pocket knife and something else. Then I left. I then came back and pulled in and acted like I just showed up. He thanked me for that. I just felt bad because I knew he was at his house alone for Christmas time but he preferred that. But it brought a smile to him and he never forgot it. Such a great memory!
To Jesse's Family:
I know time is tough right now but, please accept my deepest condolences. Jesse was a dear friend to me, I miss him, and I am sadden by the loss of my friend. May he rest in peace.