Jessie Otis Buggs

Jessie Otis Buggs was born October 11th, 1938 in Haynesville, Louisiana, to the late Willie Buggs Sr. and Annie (Martin) Buggs. Jessie was the second youngest of ten children. Jessie was preceded in death by four brothers: Leonard, Detroit, Maso, and Isiah; and four sisters: Mildred, Vera, Lois, and Charlene.

Jessie received his education in Haynesville, and graduated from Woodson High School in 1957. In the 60’s, he relocated to San Diego, California, where he found work with San Diego State University as a Supervisor in Material Management, for over 27 years, and retired in 2000. More importantly, Southern California was where he met the love of his life, Mary. Over 40 years of marriage resulted in much happiness, laughter, and travel.

Jessie accepted the Lord as his Savior and was baptized at Heritage Christian Center in 2013. He was a proud and quiet man, filled with dignity and grace. On July 8th, 2013, the Lord called Jessie home, where he was a met with a “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Jessie is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his two daughters: Sharon Day (Paul) of Murrieta, California; and Tautia Grant (Burt) of Northern California. He leaves behind a brother, Willie Buggs Jr. (Halois) of Dallas, Texas; four grandchildren, Reynisha Day-Ballinger (Steven), Jazmen Day, Alexis Day, and Daelen Day; and one great-granddaughter, Phoenix Jessie Ballinger. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who cherished him and will miss him dearly.