James Kenneth Jesse

February 24th, 1944 - November 3rd, 2024

James 's Memory Wall

We encourage you to share your most beloved memories of James here, so that the family and other loved ones can always see it. Share your favorite stories or comment on those shared by others.

We were saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. May his soul Rest In Peace and hopefully time will heal the sorrow of his absence. We were blessed to have been a small part of his circle. He had great empathy for his town, and particularly our school system. He showed his generous spirit to all and we are richer for having known him. There are no words to comfort such a loss to family, except know he touched so many lives and will be greatly missed.

Bob and Jean Storm

November 12th, 2024 at 2:40pm

Dear Jeanette and family,

As a Berrien County Judge, I had the privilege of working with Jim through the years in both Niles and St. Joseph. He was a tireless advocate on behalf of his clients. He was committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, was provided equal justice under the law.

Jim was a strong supporter of many volunteer organizations. His love and support, especially for Berrien County youth, was admirable. His substantial involvement with the community of Buchanan was reflected in the gift of his time and his financial support.

Jim was very fortunate to have married Jeanette. She was a loving wife and a talented law partner. Together, they have made this world a better place.

I was fortunate to know Jim Jesse. He was a fellow attorney. However, most of all...he was my friend.

John Fields

November 12th, 2024 at 1:23pm

Dear Jeanette and family - While our hearts are saddened at Jim's passing, we are thankful and appreciative of the time he spent with us. We came to know his true self as he became a supporting and committed presence in the congregation of the church, Hinchman UMC. He shared his problem solving and legal skills helping the church through changes and challenges. His commitment to outreach involvement in the community touched many programs and lives. He will be missed. Our love and prayers to each of you. Hinchman UMC Friends

Hinchman United Methodist Church Congregation

November 12th, 2024 at 12:05am

To Jeanette and family: I was very saddened to hear of Jim’s passing. He was always such a decent, pleasant and ethical man to work with, zealously representing his clients yet always managing to maintain the respect of the court and his opposition. My office always appreciated his professionalism and his passion for the rights of those he represented. (As well as his subtle sense of humor and his grin) We will miss him as an adversary and as a friend. God’s peace to each of you as you mourn the loss of a wonderful man and celebrate his legacy.

Cass County Prosecutor Victor Fitz

November 8th, 2024 at 2:29am

My condolences go out to the Jesse family 🙏

Mr. Jesse was an amazing person ❤️ From the many memories shared on the field with him and his son in our optimist soccer years, to his sponsorship of the league, to his amazing Christmas lights at his home that he blessed the community with to drive by and see every year, to his work as a lawyer which he did an amazing job for me with for very little benefit!

May you rest in peace 🙏