Jesse E. Westbrook's Obituary
Jesse Westbrook Obituary
Jesse Westbrook was born on October 12, 1941, in Blytheville, Arkansas to the union of Jessie and Leatha Westbrook (both preceded him in death). Jesse and his wife, Ida Westbrook, came to Chicago from Arkansas where they shared 64 years of marriage. Jesse enjoyed a fulfilling career as a self-employed truck driver before retiring. In his earlier years, he had a passion for fishing and loved spending time with his brother and nephews
-whether it was watching sports or playing basketball or enjoying a lively game of ping pong. Family gatherings were especially meaningful to Jesse.
Jesse was introduced to Christ at an early age and was a member of Nehemiah Temple Church of God in Christ in Blytheville, Arkansas, where he taught himself to play the guitar. In his younger years, he sang in a gospel quartet group. In 1987, he became a member at New Life Church of God in Christ in Harvey, Illinois under the leadership of Bishop Leroy Jones, Sr. There he was appointed to the Auxiliary Board as a Deacon and faithfully played his guitar for the congregation.
Jesse departed this life on July 25, 2025, leaving behind a loving family and many cherished memories. He is survived by his devoted wife, Ida, and his five children: Linda, Valerie, Karen, Cassandra, Kevin (Deshaunda). He also leaves behind his siblings: Ezell (Rosetta) Westbrook of Maryland, Dorothy (George) Pryor of Nevada, Eartha (Willie) McLaren of California, and Bobbie (Stanley) Meeks of California.
Preceding him in death are sisters Rosie (Lamey) McNear of Missouri, Jessie Lee Jackson of California, and Ruby Shepherd of Arkansas, and brother John Lee (Claudette) Westbrook of Illinois. Jesse also leaves behind 21 grandchildren (r preceded him in death), 20 great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews and other relatives and friends.
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