Jessie Gilbert Day

Jessie Gilbert Day, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and servant of God, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, at the age of 93 in Shreveport, Louisiana. Born on January 21, 1932, in Greenville, Florida, Jessie lived a remarkable life of service, faith, and dedication to his family and community, courageously facing Alzheimer’s disease in his final decade. 

Jessie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marlene Seva Day, and his son, Mark Douglas Day. He is survived by his three children: Jesse Day and wife Susan Levy Day of Pembroke Pines, Florida; Seva May (nee Day) and husband Byron May of Shreveport, Louisiana; and Jamey Day and wife Sherry Brooks Day of Fredericksburg, Texas. Jessie’s legacy continues through his ten grandchildren—Jason Day, Carson Pedraza ( nee Day) and husband Danny Pedraza, Dr. Blake May and wife Dr. Katherine May, Logan May and wife Deanna May, Rann Day and wife Taylor Day, McKinley Day, Hayden Day and wife Rachel Day, Kendal Day, Taylor Day and Bailey Day—and ten cherished great-grandchildren. 

A distinguished veteran, Jessie served almost 21 years in the United States Air Force, enlisting on February 7, 1950, in San Antonio, Texas. His honorable service took him to Washington State, Montana, Texas, Alaska, England, and Michigan. Retiring on August 31, 1970, as a Senior Master Sergeant, he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service. Jessie’s early achievement as an Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America foreshadowed his lifelong commitment to excellence and leadership.

 Following his military career, Jessie settled in Thomasville, Georgia, where he worked as a master mechanic, tech school mechanics instructor and entrepreneur. He worked at Day’s Transmission and Tire and Balfour Lumber Company before founding Rose City Automotive, Day’s Marine, and Daycraft Boats. Even after retiring, his passion for service led him to build a shop in his backyard, where he continued to serve his loyal customers with skill and care. Jessie was also a lifelong supporter of the Thomasville Music and Drama Troupe. All this time, Jessie remained a devoted Georgia Bulldog — never missing a Larry Munson broadcast. 

Jessie’s faith in Jesus Christ was the cornerstone of his life. A devoted member of Dawson Street Baptist, Grace Baptist, Pineland Baptist, and Gatlin Creek Baptist churches, he served faithfully in various roles, always striving to “study to show thyself approved unto God.” Jessie raised his four children—Jesse, Seva, Mark and Jamey—in the fear and admonition of the Lord, modeling Christ’s love and integrity to his family and all who knew him. His unwavering faith touched countless lives, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion and devotion.

 Though Jessie will be deeply missed, his family and friends rejoice in the knowledge that he now stands in the presence of God, worshipping in spirit and truth. Free from the burdens of Alzheimer’s and earthly limitations, Jessie has entered eternity in heaven, forever free from pain, sorrow, or sin. As we celebrate his life, we give praise and glory to God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.

 A memorial service will be held at Dawson Street Baptist Church in Thomasville, Georgia, officiated by Pastor Jamey Day on Saturday October 18th 11:00 am. Visitation will be at Allen and Allen Funeral Home 6-8 pm Friday October 17. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Alzheimers Association, ALZ.com.