Jesse Gillard passed on November 3, 2026, at the age of 95. Born on September 20, 1931, in Jennings, Jesse enlisted in the United States Army Air Corps in 1950, which was later renamed the United States Air Force where he retired after 20+ years of service in 1970. He installed and maintained communications systems all over the world. After retiring he went to work in the telecommunications field with Texas Tel and Tel (now known as Verizon) and later retired with 20+years of service. He was a longtime resident of Newton, Texas supporting his children in rodeo, football, tennis, cheerleading, band and many other activities. He was an active member of Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church in Kirbyville, TX. Jesse enjoyed fishing, deer hunting, gardening & Newton Eagle football. After 47 years he moved to Lake Charles, LA to support his wife through her illness. He was known by all as a gentle soul and devout Catholic who loved and cherished his family and friends.
Those left to cherish his memory are his children, Janet Phelps (Phil), Marsha Daniel, Linda Ponder, Kirk Gillard (Cheryl), David Gillard (Melanie), James Gillard, Stephen Gillard (Missy), Suzy Trahan (Stevie), and Missy Dunn (Eric); 28 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews that adored him.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse Gillard, Sr. and Ida Mae Dugas Gillard; wife of 65 years, Marilyn "Pat" Gillard; siblings, Stan Gillard, Mary Venable, Helen Webb, Barbara Richmond, I.J. Gillard, and Ronnie Gillard; children, Patrick Hardey, Mary Catherine Gillard, and Monica Lynn Gillard.
The family will welcome relatives and friends at Hixson Funeral Home of Westlake on Sunday, November 8, 2026 beginning at 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with a rosary to be prayed at 6:00 p.m. Visitation will resume on Monday, November 9, 2026 in the funeral home at 8:00 a.m. until the procession leaves for the church at 9:40 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John Bosco Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Magnolia Cemetery in Westlake.
Please leave fond memories for the Gillard family at www.hixsonfuneralhomes.com.
