Jesse Raymond Diaz, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away on March 16th, 2024, in Alger, MI. He was born on June 17th, 1939, in Pontiac, MI, to the late Candelario and Emesia Diaz. Jesse lived a courageous life and joined the Army at the young age of 15 under his late brother’s name. He served in the Airborne Division for nine months before they realized his true identity and was honorably discharged. He then went on to marry the love of his life, his wife of 67 years, Delores Villa on November 11th, 1956, and they were blessed with five children.
In his free time, Jesse cherished moments spent with his family. In his professional life, Jesse dedicated 30 years to the Paint Quality Control department at General Motors. His strong work ethic and attention to detail were evident in everything he did. Outside of work, Jesse was a man of faith and a proud member of the Catholic community. His spiritual beliefs guided him through life’s challenges and brought him peace and comfort.
Jesse was not only dedicated to his work and faith but also passionate about his hobbies and interests. A black belt in Judo and a proud member of the Detroit Judo Club, he found joy and discipline in the martial arts. He also had a curious mind and enjoyed watching the history and news channels, always seeking to expand his knowledge to understand the world around him. A man of many talents, Jesse was known for his handiness in fixing things around the house, his family and friends often turned to him for help and guidance, knowing that he possessed a wealth of valuable life skills.
Jesse leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, in addition to his loving wife, he is also survived by his siblings, Benito Diaz, Rachel Martell, and Esther Diaz, his children, Jesse (Debbie) Diaz, Rita (Darrell) Miracle, Jennifer (Joe) Quick, Susan (Geoff) Boyer, and Rhonda (Tim) Cooper. They were later blessed with 11 grandchildren, Chris, Casey, Ashley (Aaron), Matt, Sabrina (Travis), Sasha (Tony), Samantha (Adam), Jessica (Brian), Justin (Becky), Cameron (Mary), Kaylee (Evan), and 17 beautiful great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his siblings, Felix Diaz, Mary Serna, Connie Rodriguez, Linda Agullera, and Josephine Torres as well as many other beloved family members.
Jesse Raymond Diaz will be remembered as a kind and compassionate man, a dedicated family man, and a pillar of strength for those around him. His legacy of love, hard work, and generosity will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to have known him. His devotion to his family was unwavering, and his memory will forever be cherished by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
Friends and family are invited to pay their final respects at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home West Branch, MI, on Thursday, March 21, 2024, from 12:00- 2:00 PM.
Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com
