Jessie Mae Dewease, age 80, of Houston Texas passed away Thursday, March 12, 2020. Born on December 21, 1939, Jessie was the youngest child of Sterling and Ida Mae Douglas of Memphis, Tennessee.
Jessie graduated from Humes High School, in Memphis where she participated in several social clubs including the Latin and Science clubs in the hopes of one day becoming a nurse. In her junior year Jessie met the love of her life, Jerrold Goffron Dewease and they were married soon after graduation. As a supportive helpmate Jessie put the nursing profession aside to go to work in order for Jerrold to complete his degree in electrical engineering. Upon his college graduation he kept his promise to her which fulfilled her true dream of being a wife, mother and homemaker. Jessie moved with her family to Hartselle, Alabama, Chattanooga, Tennessee, Jackson, Mississippi and Houston, Texas to follow her husband’s brilliant career as a nuclear engineer.
Jessie was an avid sports fan, never missing her children’s sporting events or even a team practice. She especially loved watching the Dallas Cowboys, enjoyed playing along with TV games shows, was an excellent cook, loved her flower garden, and was the ultimate hostess. She mostly enjoyed gathering the entire family together in their home for holiday’s and special occasions.
Above all, Jessie will be remembered as a selfless, fun loving, kind soul who loved the Lord and always put her family’s needs above her own. She was a ray of sunshine bringing laughter and joy to everyone who knew her. Her faithfulness as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ showed in her beautiful spirit as well as her love for others. Jessie and Jerrold were long-time members of First Baptist Church Pasadena where she actively served in the women’s ministry.
Jessie is preceded in death by her loving parents, sister Bessie Lee Davis and devoted husband of 61 years, Jerrold Dewease. Jessie leaves behind her four children Jerry Dewease, wife Anita, Jeff Dewease, wife Cindy, Jason Dewease and Jessica Tuttoilmondo, husband Mark. She was Nana to grandchildren Andrew, Matthew, Brandon, Makayla, Sterling and Mark Jr.
Jessie will be laid to rest in Louisville, Mississippi at Liberty Baptist Church next to her beloved husband. There will be no local service. However, in lieu of flowers please consider a donation in the name of Jessie Mae Dewease to the Alzheimer’s Association at alzfdn.org.
Services are under the direction of Nowell Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.
