April 15th 1949 Jesse Edmund Washington began his journey in Austin, Texas. He was known by many as simply JEW and rarely called by his actual name. He was the eldest child born to the late Jesse and Ruth Washington, and his family fondly called him “Baby Wash” because he embraced his role as big brother, uncle and father with love and compassion just like his father, “Daddy Wash”.
Jesse began his education at Holy Cross and was a proud member of the graduating class of 1967 at L.C. Anderson High School. He played saxophone as well as other instruments in the Yellow Jacket Band throughout high school. He was also a proud member of The Texas Tigers, a social club, started with a select few of his closest friends who remain in touch to this day. Jesse attended the historical Huston-Tillotson College and majored in government. He then sought to explore the world, and enlisted in the United States Navy. He served his country from 1970 – 1971 before returning to Austin. He began his career with the City of Austin in 1982 and retired 20 years later proudly as the Chief Zoning Inspector for the Zoning and Code Enforcement division.
If it had wheels and a motor, then JEW would roll with it. He had a passion for sporty vehicles and developed a lot of relationships with people that he met while working on or repairing his cars. The feel of the wind on the open road fueled his fire for many years as he loved motorcycles. As a member of the Humpin’ People since 2001 he later became the Lead Road Captain and Advisor for them and loved to talk about the trips and rides that they took. He traveled thousands of miles, shared life stories, and befriended many from all walks of life. Jesse was respected by all, beloved by many and cherished as confidante and advisor to his family.
On Saturday, May 18, 2024, Jesse departed this earthly life. His grandmother, Bertha Ferguson Rucker; parents, Jesse and Ruth Nell; his sisters, Sonfra Kaye Shafer and Raichon Lynelle and baby brother, George Samuel, welcomed him to their eternal home.
He leaves to cherish his memories in this life his children: Kimberly D. Washington, Tracey R. Haywood (Terence), Kellie Sauls, Jamund E. Washington (Megan), Anitra L. Baker (Tommie); His grandchildren: Orreon J Gooden, Sean C. Gooden, Dy'Rius L. Haywood (Lisha), Addison L. Green, Taylor L. Baker, Aiden L. Baker, Juniper E. Washington; His great grandchildren: Xyliana Gooden, Saint L. Haywood. He also leaves his sister, Bertha Ruth Hansbrough (Boyd), his niece and nephews, Melvin A. Hammond III (Lashonda), Bryant D. Hansbrough (Andrea), Doyle A Shafer II (Kei), Bria R. Hansbrough and a host of great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends.
A visitation for Jesse will be held Tuesday, May 28, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home, 14501 North Interstate 35, Pflugerville, Texas 78660. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, May 29, 2024 from 11:00 a.m., at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 1010 E 10th St, Austin, TX 78702. A committal service will follow at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Cemetery in Pflugerville, Texas.
