Jess, aged 87, was called home by our Lord and granted eternal life on September 3, 2025. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family at his home. Jess was born to Jess and Emma Najera and was raised in Fresno, California.
In September 1956, Jess married the love of his life. Arlene SavaIa, and raised three children. Determined to provide for his family, Jess worked several jobs simultaneously as a young father and served in the U.S. National Guard. After being honorably discharged, Jess established a career in the retail grocery business for forty years.
Jess and Arlene shared a love of adventure. In their younger days, they could be found dancing the night away at the timeless Rainbow Ballroom. Following Jess's retirement, they enjoyed traveling the world through extravagant cruises alongside family. He enjoyed cooking, making home improvements, trips to Table Mountain with his wife, listening to Vicente Fernandez, and most importantly, demonstrating his unconditional love and affection to his granddaughters, whom he adored. Jess will forever be remembered for his devotion to his family. strong work ethic, and witty personality.
Jess was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years and is survived by his siblings, Richard and Jim Najera; sons, Ron and Randy Najera; daughter, Lori Najera; former daughter-in-law, Bertha Najera: and granddaughters, Melina and Marisa Najera.
A visitation will take place at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns and Blair Funeral Home at 836 E Ness Ave, Fresno, CA 93720 on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, form 4:00 to 6:00 pm, followed by a Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 pm.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 5770 N Maroa Ave, Fresno, CA 93704 on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at 10:00 am, followed by a Committal Graveside Service immediately after the funeral mass at
St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery, 264 N Blythe Ave, Fresno, CA 93706.
