Jesse McDonald, 71, of Newport, passed from this life on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. He was born in Newport on February 5, 1953, to Jessie Lee Heard and Henrietta McDonald.
Jesse was a man who embraced life with passion and joy. He found great happiness in the outdoors, whether it was hunting in the woods or casting a line while fishing. The thrill of the casino was another pastime he loved, enjoying the excitement and camaraderie it brought. More than anything, Jesse cherished time spent with his family and friends, making memories that will last a lifetime.
He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, always bringing warmth and laughter to those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but the love he shared will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Jesse was preceded in death by his parents; his stepdaughter, Stephanie King; his brother, Marcus Heard; and his sisters, Helen McDonald and Gertrude McDonald.
He leaves behind his devoted wife, Josie, of the home; his son, Kenneth Calamese and wife Chantay of Longview, Texas; his stepson, Shawn Ellis of Newport; his stepdaughters, Celia Ford of Little Rock and Monique Ford of Newport; his brothers, Johnny McDonald and wife Reba of Newport, Shawn Heard (Tina) of Virginia, and Henry Heard of Virginia; and his cherished grandchildren, Ialiyah Calamese and Kaycen Calamese; his sisters-in-law, Katherine Ellis of Newport, Paula Ellis (Bill) of Las Vegas, Bobbie Johnson of Las Vegas, Eloise Lee (Daniel) of Little Rock, and Sandra Ellis of Little Rock; brothers-in-law, Glenn Ellis Sr. (Steph Ann) of Little Rock, Jimmy Ellis of Little Rock, Joey Ellis Sr., (Felicia) of Little Rock, James Edward Ellis of Little Rock and a host of nieces and nephews.
Jesse also leaves behind a lifetime of friends, including special friends Jimmy Wilson, Timothy Golden, and Lonnie Patterson. His spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him.
Service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Dillinger Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be Friday, February 7th from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Interment at Mt. Zion Cemetery.
