Jesse Franklin Winnon

Jesse was born on July 11, 1935, in Crew Lake, Louisiana, the oldest son of a sharecropper. He spent his entire life working hard, from driving a tractor at age 8 on a farm, to his Navy service in Hawaii, and over 41 years with the Missouri Pacific & Union Pacific Railroad, first as a Brakeman, then as an Engineer. He could be seen driving his train, blowing his whistle and waving at every child that waved to him. His greatest joys in life were his savior Jesus Christ and his family, especially his children and grandchildren, who he loved always and unconditionally; the feeling was reciprocated. He was a true friend to anyone who needed a hand, a hot meal, or just gas money to get home; He had a giving, loving, servant's heart.

Jesse was a self-educated man who earned his GED while in the Navy; he loved learning and reading, and encouraged all of his children to be the best that they could be. He was a prolific writer and storyteller who had a folksy, truthful way with a pen. He was also our rock when we needed one to lean on, our voice of reason, our moral compass, a patient teacher, and a shining example of faithfulness, truth, and unconditional love. Nobody could have asked for a better husband or father, and we are truly blessed to have had him for 81 years.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 58 years Terri Sue Belton Winnon, his 3 children Kimberly Winnon AmRhein (Fred) of San Antonio, Texas, Connie Winnon Rowe (Forrest) of Spring, Texas and Steven M. Winnon (Terri) of Conroe, Texas; 4 grandchildren; Travis Winnon, Jessica AmRhein, Bailey AmRhein & Grace Winnon. He is also survived by his brothers George and Steve Winnon, sisters Mae Mardis and Lillian Atkins. He is preceded in death by his parents W.T. & Willie Lea Winnon, sister Rachel Spicer, and brothers Otis & Troy Davis. We know there is a joyful reunion in Heaven, and that he will continue to watch over all of us, just as he has always done. We love you Daddy.

A public viewing will be held on June 2 from 12 p.m.-1p.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary North with a Graveside service and full Military Burial to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas at 2:30 p.m.