Jesse Michael Waddell, a resident of Mandeville, Louisiana, passed away on March 15, 2026, at the age of 31. Born in Metairie on August 12, 1994, Jesse grew into a man who was intelligent, funny, and had the kindest heart.
He leaves behind a family who adored him: his wife, Yuri Sisson Waddell; his mother, Melanie Mongrue Waddell; his father, Doug Waddell; his siblings, Jeanée (Derek), Joshua (Alli), and Jolie (Brayden); as well as his adoring nieces Vivian, Evelyn, Mae, and Annelise. His loyal four-legged companion, Louie Lestat, was always by his side. He also leaves behind a large, loving circle of aunts, uncles, and cousins who meant the world to him.
Jesse graduated from Fontainebleau High school in 2013 and Nashville Software School in 2017. Jesse was a gifted Web Developer at American Trade Show, where he shared a close bond with his colleagues. But his true language was music. Aside from his gift of singing, it was often said he could play any instrument put in his hands; he mastered the guitar, piano, drums, bass, harmonica, and trumpet, frequently serenading his pup, Louie.
Jesse loved watching movies and playing Zelda with Yuri, exploring the outdoors, and traveling to the beach. From the shores of Hawaii where he and Yuri eloped in 2023, to family trips in Florida and Lake Norfolk, Arkansas. The water was his happy place along with nature in general. He was a man of "deep talks", that ventured into space and the unknown.
Jesse was a safe presence for those he knew. His huge hugs and welcoming smile was captivating. He allowed everyone to be their truest selves without any judgement. He was the epitome of God’s love and grace. This immense loss shakes the hearts of all who knew him.
We will gather to honor Jesse at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Covington on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. A viewing will begin at 10:30 AM, with mass following at 12:30 PM. Burial immediately following at Grace Funeral Home. Please join us at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church Family Life Center for a celebration of his life.
