Jesse Earl Anderson, affectionately known as”Big Daddy” to his adoring grandchildren, passed away peacefully at his home in Little Rock, Ark., on February 22, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was 87 years old.
Jesse was born on February 9, 1937, to the late William and Irma Anderson in Little Rock, Ark. He was educated in the public school system and was a proud member of Dunbar High School’s Graduating Class of 1954. From a young age, Jesse embraced his faith and was baptized at Collins Street Baptist Church by Rev. Nichols. He continued his spiritual journey at Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, where he served faithfully for over 50 years, singing with the Male Chorus and contributing his time and talents to the congregation. A dedicated and hardworking man, Jesse began his career at Tru Ade Bottling Company in 1954, and later joined Carrier, where he worked until his retirement in 1995. Throughout his life, Jesse was known for his strong work ethic and willingness to help others. He took on various odd jobs for family and friends in the Little Rock community, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. A man of many talents and unwavering dedication to his family and community, Jesse will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, service, and commitment will continue to inspire generations.
Jesse was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Cassandra Anderson-Gilbert; siblings, William Sr., Sherman Anderson, and Catherine Cunningham; and granddaughter, Camille Hunter.
He leaves to cherish and honor his memories: a loving and devoted wife of nearly four decades, Pauline; children, Vicki Anderson-Bogan (Tommy) and Reshunda Nellums, both of Little Rock, Ark., and Zachery (Brandy) Nellums of Scott, Ark.; siblings, Berry Anderson of Little Rock, Ark., Bernice Anderson Crawford of Murrieta, Calif., and Mildred Brown of Sacramento, Calif. He also leaves behind 12 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, who cherished him dearly. The family extends special thanks to Dr. Joe Pevahouse, Dr. Kevin Heifner, the UAMS Neurology Department, Gentivia Hospice, Case Manager Cymber Main, RNP, and Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor DA. Witcher, for their support and care during this difficult time.
A family hour will be Friday, March 1, 2024, 5-6 p.m., at Ruffin & Jarrett Funeral Home, 1200 Chester Street, Little Rock, Ark. 72202. (501) 372-1305. Funeral service will be Saturday, March 2, 2024, 11 a.m., Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, 1700 S. State Street, Little Rock, Ark. 72202.
Bishop Steven M. Arnold, Pastor Joshua Hurlburt, Board of Elders, Officers, and Members of the Grace United Church of Little Rock, Arkansas, extend our most profound expression of sympathy to the Anderson Family as you celebrate the life and legacy of your loved one, Jesse Earl Anderson. Our faith teaches us to rejoice that “to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” We want to acknowledge Jesse’s physical presence will be greatly missed.
We, the members of Grace United Church, will continue to petition the Lord on behalf of his wife, our dear member, Pauline Anderson, in addition to the entire Anderson Family. Jesus said, “Cast your burden on Him, for earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal.” Make God your hope and look to the hills where your help comes from.
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints. For, whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord; whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.”
The God of all grace shall keep you always and in every way.
In the Lord’s loving care,
Grace United Church
Pastors
Bishop Steven M. Arnold
Pastor Joshua Hurlburt
Condolences from our family to yours, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time