WILKINS, Jesse Hubert, MWO (Ret’d), CD, MSE Op, RCLS
Jesse Wilkins Sr, 85 years old, of Shea Heights, NL passed away peacefully on July 8th, 2025. Jesse leaves behind the love of his life, Ruth, whom he followed around since they were teens. Jesse was so sure that Ruth was the one, he had her name tattooed on his arm before they were even engaged. He was right; they achieved 62 years of marriage. Jesse leaves behind his children Anita (Steve) and Jesse (Linda), and grandchildren Stephen, Marina (Brent), and Jessica (Sam). His great-grandchildren, Ben, Adam, and Rosie, were the highlight of his week.
Jesse spent a career in the Army, a proud peacekeeper who served his country in Cyprus. As the Vice-Chair of the Peacekeepers Association for many years, Jesse was a proud member of Legion Branch 1 and was passionate about remembrance and service, correcting businesses on the placement of flags whenever called to the task. Jesse was especially proud of the Shea Heights War Memorial.
In his second career, Jesse worked for Metrobus, where his stories are legend. He enjoyed many things, most especially dancing with Ruth, laughing with family, and encouraging Brent to get himself in trouble at ‘gravy night.’ He had a soft spot for dogs and clean naughty jokes and could make any misfortune a hilarious story to last the ages. He made the best gravy known to humanity, was an expert in the kitchen, detested any kind of sauce (just the burger and the bun, please), and loved his Pepsi. He will be missed beyond words can say.
A funeral service was held on Saturday, July 12th 2025 at 11:00 AM at the Salvation Army Citadel (25 Adams Ave, St. John’s, NL A1C4Z1).
Donations can be made to the Parkinson Society NL and the Salvation Army.