February 24, 1944 – November 3, 2024

James Kenneth Jesse, 80, of Buchanan, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday morning, November 3, 2024.
Jim was born on February 24, 1944, to James Glen and Pauline (VanEvery) Jesse in Niles, Michigan. He graduated from Buchanan High School in 1962. Jim continued his education through Michigan State University, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1966, and Master of Business Administration in 1967. He then attended the University of Notre Dame, graduating with a Juris Doctorate in 1970. On his birthday, February 24, 1971, Jim hired the woman destined to be his bride, Jeanette Russell. They were married on September 18, 1971.

Jim founded the Jesse Law Office in Buchanan on January 2, 1971, and practiced law in the same location for more than 53 years. Throughout his career as an attorney, he routinely served those most in need. Jim was a longtime supporter of public education, especially the students and teachers of Buchanan. He worked with various court personnel to establish the “Michigan District Court to Buchanan High School” program in which students were able to observe actual court proceedings. In 2021, Jim was inducted into the Buchanan Community Schools Hall of Fame in recognition of his service.

Jim also generously supported local youth sports, including Buchanan Floor Hockey, Buchanan Little League Baseball, and Optimist Soccer. His efforts contributed to numerous projects, including the development of soccer fields at the middle school and a new scoring table for the high school.

Service to the community was a central part of Jim’s life, as demonstrated through both his professional work and his extensive volunteer efforts, but one of his greatest labors of love was the annual Christmas light display at his home.
Over more than four decades it grew to an impressive 115,000 lights. Although Jim occasionally considered ending it, the joy it brought to the community gave him the impetus to continue. Driving north of town to see “The Jesse Christmas House” remains a cherished annual tradition for many families to this day. Jim is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jeanette Jesse; daughter, Susan (Brian) Foster; sons, James “Jay” (Kathryn) Jesse and Sean Jesse; and grandchildren, Faith, Lune and

Lauren Foster and James and Josephine Jesse. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jack Jesse.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 pm on Sunday, November 10, and 5-7 pm on Monday, November 11, at Swem Chapel, 301 W. Front St., Buchanan. A celebration of life service will take place at 1 pm on Tuesday, November 12 at Swem Chapel. Memorial contributions in Jim’s name may be made to Buchanan Community Schools. Those wishing to send a condolence online may do so at www.swemchapel.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Swem Chapel, Buchanan.