James R. Jesse

James R. Jesse, 50, of Lexington, IL passed away on Saturday, January 6, 2024 at OSF St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington, with his family by his side. He was born in Gibson City, IL, on September 29, 1973 to Bob Jesse and Holly (Hester) Frost.

James was a hardworking man, who was heavily depended upon and respected by his peers. Over the course of the 25+ years he was at Nestle Beich (now known as Ferraro Candy), he worked his way up to being an Electrical Mechanical Technician and loved every minute of his job. James married the love of his life and best friend, Michele Borth on August 24, 2002. Together, the two enjoyed several years of camping at James’ favorite place, the mountains of Durango, CO. He was incredibly proud of his truck “Bubba” that pulled their camper all the way through the mountains. Jim was also a sports fan. Not only did he like going to see the Cardinals play live and support the Buffalo Bills from the comfort of home, but he also loved supporting his grandkids play sports. Every day he had off, he went to go see them and cheer them on. At the end of the day, James is best known for his love of being a family man. He was best remembered for spending time with the family, making memories and embarking on many adventures together.

Surviving are his loving wife of 21 years, Michele Borth; children, Ruth (Verlyn) Wiesner {children, Max Robert, Charlee Michele, Taylor Danielle, Kloie Lucas}, Ashley Jesse {3 children}, Brittany Jesse {3 children}; siblings, Jennifer (Kevin Nadler) Sutter, Lyndsi (Derek) Moederndorfer, Christopher (Dilcia) Frost; mother, Holly (John) Frost; mother-in-law, Mary Borth; brother-in-law, Jeff Borth; special friend, Nancy Stahl; nieces and nephews, Brendon John Sutter, Brookelyn Love Sutter, Hailey (Bryce Minder) Nadler, Courtney (Nate) Tosh, Jacob Borth, Ariel Borth, Kaleb Stevenson, Kynsli Moederndorfer, Skylin Moederndorfer, Ryker Moederndorfer; and great niece and great nephew, Aly Valent and Greyson Borth.

He is preceded in passing by his father, Bob Jesse; father-in-law, Frank C. Borth; niece-in-law, Jessica Borth; and is with his furry companions, Simba and Diamond.

Cremation rites have been accorded with East Lawn Funeral Home, Bloomington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, TLC Animal Shelter, or NF Midwest.

A special thank you to all of the nurses and staff at OSF St. Joseph, Illinois Cancer Care, and Dr. Samuel Steffan for their kindness and compassion.

Condolences and memories may be left with the family at eastlawnmemorial.com