Jesse Blakey

Jesse, A Remarkable Man

Jesse Blakey was born June 7, 1925 in Cleaton, Ky, the oldest son of Emma Bibbs and Ben Blakey. He entered into his eternal rest on February 28, 2017.

Jesse professed his faith in Jesus Christ as a young man and attended his neighborhood church. Jesse and his mother moved to Indianapolis when he was 9 years of age. Here she remarried and to that union was another son, Telmage. From an early age Jesse exhibited strong moral and ethical qualities. He was a dependable young man; one his mother looked to for support and leadership. Jesse grew to be a great provider for his family. He took care of his stepfather, brother, mother and wife until their deaths.

As a dedicated patriot, Jesse was inducted into the Army/Air Force September 14, 1943 . He served his country well being honorably discharged in 1946 with the American Theatre Award; Good Conduct Medal; and the World War II Victory Medal.

Jesse married Forresteene Ballinger (deceased) September 1944. To this union were born four children: Jesse David, Joyce Yvonne, Sophronia Mary and Michael Steven.

Following his military service, Jesse was employed by International Harvester, as well as Allison and Chevrolet Truck and Bus. He also served as Chairman of the Supervisory Board at the Drover Street Credit Union and mentored numerous employees on the value of saving and investing their money wisely.

In July 25, 1967 Jesse married Helen Whitelaw (deceased). To this union was born Yvette Denise and Helen's three children: Jerry Eaton (deceased), Vernice and Spencer Whitelaw.

Jesse had great insight and expertise in financial planning and a passion for investing in the stock market. Ole Jess, as he loved to refer to himself, could be found on the job, at home, or in the yard giving tips on the stock market to everyone. Jesse was an avid reader. While simultaneously reading the daily newspaper, watching the hourly stock market quotes, and talking to you, he enjoyed a good biography.

Ole Jess, enjoyed gardening, cutting grass of the widows in the neighborhood, and feeding the birds and stray cats. It was not uncommon for family and neighbors to come home from work and find fresh vegetables on their porch. He loved sharing the fruits of his labor with family, friends and neighbors. He was a defender of the less fortunate. He donated to churches he never attended, children he never met, and even in his death he donated his skin tissue.

Ole Jess was a 32nd Degree Mason. Jesse would have you cracking up laughing, singing the 'Blues' and telling stories about how he would sale cabbage door to door for 25 cent as a young boy. You could hear him early on Saturday mornings in the garage singing in his melodic baritone voice, 'Cladonya',what makes you hear so hard? or 'Sunrise, Sunset'.

The families of Jesse David Blakey; Joyce (Michael) Lillard; Sophronia Morris; Michael Steven Blakey; Yvette Denise (James) Banks; Vernice Whitelaw; Spencer (Deborah) Whitelaw; Norman Thomas (nephew) and 25 grandchildren, 39 great grandchildren and 5 great-great grand children wish to thank each of you for your prayers, visits, and words of comfort during the time of his illness and passing. We appreciate you joining us today to celebrate Our father's Homecoming.

A Special heartfelt thanks to his caregivers: Lyzette, Dee, Shelly, Janee, Camille, Sharika, Neecie, Michael,Yolonda, Kiesha, and Shavonne. You were a blessing from God.

We, Mr. Jesse, Neecie, Sophronia, and Yvette will cherish you always for your caregiving labor of love.

He has fought the good fight, he has finished the race, he has kept the faith.

II Timothy 4:7

A Visitation was held at Flanner and Buchanan-Washington Park North 2706 Kessler Blvd West Drive Indianapolis IN 46228 at 10:00:00 AM on 3/7/2017.

A Celebration of Life was held at Flanner and Buchanan-Washington Park North 2706 Kessler Blvd West Drive Indianapolis IN 46228 at 12:00:00 PM on 3/7/2017.