Reverend Jesse Leonard Bemis, Jr.

Jesse Leonard Bemis, Jr., 95, of Gilmer returned to be with the Lord on Tuesday, September 19, 2023.  He was born in Dover, Idaho on October 18, 1927, to the late Jesse Leonard Bemis, Sr. and Katherine (Downhour) Bemis.  Jesse married Bernice Mae Wilton on February 8, 1947, in Tuscan, AZ, who preceded Jesse in death on May 27, 2014

Jesse proudly served his country serving in both the US Army as well as the Air Force.  He ran his own business selling new and used appliances and house goods, but eventually found his calling in life and became an ordained Baptist Minister.  Jesse was well known for his artistic abilities working with stained glass.  He created windows for churches, doves for a hospice organization, a window piece for the World Fair in St. Louis, and lampshades, which are treasured pieces of artwork.  Jesse and Bernice retired to Gilmer, TX, where they attended and were active in the First Baptist Church of Gilmer.

Jesse is survived by his children, Sandra Sanders, Diana Bartram and her husband Bob, Sharon Mabe and her husband, Randy, and Rick Bemis and their families, as well as many extended family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Katherine Bemis; beloved wife, Bernice Bemis; and his sisters, Ruth, Helen, Dorothy and Catherine.

A memorial service for Jesse will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Gilmer, with Bro. Mike Kessler officiating.  Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Croley Funeral Home of Gilmer.  Jesse will be laid to rest with Bernice at the Morris Cemetery in Upshur County.