Donnie Ray Jessie

Donnie Ray Jessie, 90, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky. Born on October 4, 1934, in Columbia, Kentucky, Donnie lived a long and meaningful life rooted in faith, family, and service to others. Donnie dedicated much of his professional life to hard work and craftsmanship. He was employed by Henry Vogt Machine Company and later worked with Automatic Air. His career also included time at Tom Sawyer State Park, where his commitment to service and community continued to shine. A man of faith, Donnie lived out his values through quiet strength, generosity, and a heart for serving others. He was always ready to lend a hand, putting the needs of others before his own without hesitation. Though strong-willed, he carried a lightheartedness that made him a joy to be around. His playful sense of humor and warm presence brought smiles to many, and he was affectionately known as “PaPa” by those who loved him. Donnie shared 67 years of devoted marriage with his beloved wife, Denora Jessie. Together they built a loving family that was always at the center of Donnie’s heart. He is lovingly remembered by his daughter Karen (Dan) Boone and son Dennis (Tammy) Jessie and his sister Doris Kaberle. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Whitney Van Winkle; Nathan (Jackie) Marrs; Lindsey (Nick) Smith; Megan Paskitti; Ben Marrs; Alyson (Connor) Groves; Alec Jessie; Elly (Mike) Alldredge; Charles Jessie, and 8 great-grandchildren. Donnie now joins in eternal rest his parents, Edna Jessie Emmetsberger and James Thomas Jessie; stepfather John Emmetsberger; siblings Charles Jessie, Betty Spear, and Connie Jessie; daughter Tamra Jessie Marrs; and grandson Aaron Marrs. A visitation will be held on Friday April 25, 2025 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm at Louisville Memorial Gardens East. Visitation will be held on Saturday April 26, 2025 from 11:00am until 12:00pm. Funeral Service will be held on Saturday April 26, 2025 at 12:00pm with burial to follow at Louisville Memorial Gardens East. The family ask that in Donnie's honor, a lieu of flowers be made to The American Heart Association and The American Cancer Society. Donnie leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.