Jesse T. Yarbro

Jesse T. Yarbro, a great man whose life was marked by dedication, service, and unwavering love for his family, passed away on June 18, 2026, in Beaumont, Texas. Born on March 12, 1933, in Mason, Tennessee into a sharecropper family, Jesse’s journey through life reflected the virtues of a man committed to duty, family, and community.

A proud veteran who served his country in places all around the world, Jesse began his distinguished military career serving four years in the United States Navy. He later continued his service with the United States Air Force, dedicating 22 years and attaining the rank of Senior Master Sergeant before retiring. His combined 26 years in uniform stand as a testament to his discipline, resilience, and profound commitment to his country.

Jesse, known as “J.T.”, “Uncle T”, and “T”, was a man of quiet strength and deep wisdom with words rooted in honesty and flavored with a sharp wit. He was also a man with a heart full of empathy, particularly for those less fortunate. A few other names he answered to were Father, Dad, Grandpa, Grand-dad, Grandpa Jesse. The 602nd DASC called him First Shirt. No matter the name you used to address Jesse Yarbro; you did it with respect and admiration.

Jesse’s greatest pride and joy were his family. Even in his 93rd year, he continued to personally selected and mailed cards to celebrate those he cared for. He was the embodiment of what it means to be a father - steadfast, nurturing, and endlessly supportive. His legacy lives on in his children: daughter, Belinda Breaux and husband, Robert; son, York Yarbro and wife, Shirley; and daughter, Roxanne Gill and husband, Greg. He was blessed with a host of grandchildren: Summer Pritchett, Autumn Minton, Peggy Anne Blanscet, Caitlin Touchet, Dakota Gill, Lauren Elizabeth McNair. His continual love as grandpa to Sonya Patterson, Jimmy Dupree, Justin, Nathan, & Lacey Bayreuther. Sixteen great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. Grandpa’s enduring presence in their lives will always be remembered for his love and guidance. In an additional blessing to the family, his great-granddaughter, Elena gave birth to his great-great-grandson on Father’s Day - naming him Jesse in honor of Grandpa.

J.T. possessed a remarkable handyman ability with skilled hands, patience, and common sense. He seemed knowledgeable about everything and able to repair or create nearly anything. He spent money judiciously throughout his life and found joy in thoughtful details.

In leisure, Jesse found solace and pleasure in the simple pursuits of fishing and cooking, as well as reading to keep himself up to date with the latest technologies and world events. He took pride in managing his own affairs and making wise investments, demonstrating foresight and responsibility.

Above all, he was the embodiment of everything that's great about a "FATHER". The world needs men like him, now more than ever. He will always be his family’s #1 hero.

Jesse T. Yarbro is preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Doris Yarbro, who instilled the values that shaped his life, a brother Allen L. Yarbro, and a sister, Nina Miller. His memory will remain cherished by all who had the privilege to know him.

A life so well-lived, marked by courage, humility, and boundless love, Jesse T. Yarbro leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. May he rest in peace, forever remembered as a true gentleman, a loyal servant, and a devoted patriarch.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Southeast Texas Veterans Service Group, P.O. Box 12352, Beaumont, Texas 77726 or Tunnel to Tower, t2t.org.