Jesse Powell

Jesse was born on December 3, 1936 in Anthony, Florida. His parents were Glema (nee Roland) and William Powell. He attended Fessenden Academy in Marion County before embarking on a 22 year, active-duty career in the Air Force.

While in the Air Force, Jesse specialized in telecommunications operations, managing communication links for senior-level officers, air forces and ground teams. As an airman, Jesse completed multiple assignments throughout the world, including multiple tours in Asia, specifically in Korea and Vietnam. The Air Force recognized Jesse for his honorable service with a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medals, and Air Force Longevity Service Awards. Jesse retired from the Air Force as a TSgt in October 1977.

In 1971, before completing his last tour in Vietnam, Jesse met and married Tuyet Mai in 1971. At the time Jesse retired from the military, he and Tuyet had already started a family and had four young children. Jesse worked hard to support his family, often taking in more than one job at a time. At various times he worked as a part-time salesman at both Tastee Freeze and Sears, modeled for Sears, sold life insurance, and delivered newspapers. Ever a lover of learning, he also attended night classes at Cal Poly Pomona to pursue his teaching credentials. Jesse eventually became a dietitian at the Veterans Administration hospital in Loma Linda, CA where he retired from civil service in April 2005 after 23 years of service.

Jesse is survived by his wife Tuyet Mai, sons Derek (JoAnne) and Jerry, daughters Mai Anh (Marlon) Jones and Joanna, grandchildren Omari, Allana, Jordyn, and Rachel, brothers Robert and Norman, sisters Doretha and Margie and was predeceased by sisters Willie Mae and Audrey.

His family has organized a memorial service to honor Jesse's life and military service to be held Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at Miller Jones Mortuary, 23618 Sunnymead Blvd., Moreno Valley, CA 92553. Viewing will be from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM with the service from 12:00 to 1:00 PM. This will be followed by a committal service from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, CA 92518.