WAKEFIELD — Leonard J. Jesse, 86, a longtime resident of Wakefield, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, Feb. 4.
Mr. Jesse was born in Malden on May 29, 1928 and was one of two sons of the late Leonard Jr. and Helena (Bax) Jesse. Raised in Everett, he was a graduate of Everett High School and served his country honorably in the U.S. Navy during World War II. On Oct. 6, 1951, he married his beloved wife, Virginia J. Emberley, and they settled in Wakefield to raise two daughters. Mr. Jesse was a dedicated family man who was forever loyal to his wife, daughters, grandchildren and great-grandson.
Mr. Jesse was the data processing coordinator for the town of Stoneham for over 30 years. Among many responsibilities, he formulated report cards and was responsible for paychecks for all city employees. As his career progressed, Mr. Jesse developed a fondness for technology and an appreciation for the capability of the computer. With a strong work ethic and dedication to his profession, Leonard enjoyed every day he went to work.
In addition to his family and his work, Mr. Jesse had a special love for music. From a young age, he began playing the piano and later in life purchased an organ and taught himself how to play it. A longtime member of the First Parish Congregational Church, he loved singing in the choir and participated in many Bible studies and weekend retreats.
A resident of Wakefield for over 60 years, Leonard was a member and past president of the Wakefield Retired Men’s Club and volunteered at the Wakefield Senior Center teaching computer classes. On the weekends, Mr. Jesse also worked as a wedding photographer in the local area. Another activity that brought him much joy was motorcycling. In his mid 50’s, he bought a motorcycle, joined the group the “Retreads” and traveled throughout New England and beyond with his biking buddies.
Most of all, Mr. Jesse’s life centered around his family. He was happiest when at home spending time with his family. Throughout their lives, he was actively involved with his beloved grandchildren and happily cared for them when they were young. Every year, he looked forward to the family outing to cut down the Christmas tree. He loved spending time gathered together in Shapleigh, Maine or simply reading a book on the porch overlooking the pond. Mr. Jesse will be lovingly remembered by his family and friends.
Len was the beloved husband of Virginia J. (Emberley) Jesse, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. He was the devoted father of Sharon J. Covell and her husband Richard of Saugus and Linda J. Jesse of Wakefield. He was the dear brother of Donald E. Jesse of England. He was the cherished grandfather of Rebekah, Scott and his wife Jessika, Emily and Evan Covell, all of Saugus. He was the loving great-grandfather of Bentley Covell.
Relatives and friends gathered in honor and remembrance of Leonard’s life at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose during visiting hours on Tuesday, Feb. 10 and for his funeral service celebrated at the First Parish Congregational Church, 1 Church St., Wakefield on Wednesday, Feb. 11. Interment with military honors by the U.S. Navy will take place at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park, Peabody.
Gifts in memory of Leonard may be made to First Parish Congregational Church, 1 Church St., Wakefield MA 01880. For directions, online tribute or to share a memory, visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.
