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Jesse Lee Freitas
1951 - 2015
Jesse Lee Freitas
1951 - 2015
Obituary
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Jesse Freitas Obituary
Sep. 10, 1951 - Feb. 8, 2015
Former Resident of San Mateo County
Jesse was a loving father, son, brother, and friend, as well as a talented athlete. He excelled at sports, especially football. A native and long-time resident of San Mateo County, he attended St. Bartholomew's Elementary School and Junipero Serra High School. He played quarterback at Serra, and under the coaching of his father, led the Padres to a West Catholic Athletic League title as a senior in 1968. He still holds seven Serra passing records including career yardage (3,802). He went on to play football for Stanford and then San Diego State, where he led the nation in passing in his senior year (227/347 for 2,993 yards). He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the sixth round in 1974 and played 2 seasons in the NFL. Other notable accomplishments include induction into the San Mateo County Sports Hall of Fame in 1996 and contributions to the community through organizations like the Boys and Girls Club of Petaluma and St. Vincent de Paul. Beyond football, Jesse was known for his love of God and his family, his courage, and his generous heart.
Jesse is at peace in the presence of Jesus. He is survived by his four children (Jennifer, Tyler, Kellie, Bradley), his father (Jess), brother (Jim), sister (Lynn), nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins, and many loved ones. He is preceded in death by his mother (Mary Elizabeth "Bette").
A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Bartholomew's Catholic Church in San Mateo at 10:30am on Friday, February 20th. Donations in his memory can be sent to Junipero Serra High School (San Mateo) endowed scholarship fund.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Phillip Lavios
November 13, 2023
I remember Jesse as a quarterback for San Diego State. What a shining talent! As a former player and coach myself, I could not believe the skills he had as a quarterback! Phenomenal athlete! I just.learned of his death, and my heart goes out to his family. Your with God now Jesse! Rest peacfully
George Stevens
November 22, 2020
I played third base behind Jesse on the St Barts 6th grade baseball team when I was in 5th grade. It was hardball, not softball. He would strike out the side with 9 pitches often. At Serra, his primary football receiver was Lynn Swann. At San Diego St, his primary receiver was Isaac Curtis. I got into a pick up football game with Jesse and some other St Barts guys one time on what is now the softball field at Aragon HS and caught a pass from Jesse. I think he trusted me because I didn't make any errors at third base even though I was a year younger. His dad was the baseball coach and put me on the team because none of the 6th graders could handle grounders on the grassless rock hard infield at the old St Barts field which is now the parking lot for the church. Very sad to read of his passing now. I have happy memories of playing ball with Jesse, and being coached by his father at St Barts. Also read about his Jesse At passing this year. Thanks for the lasting memories guys.
Steve Pereira
February 24, 2015
A great Man
Rest in Peace my friend
Bill Roake
February 19, 2015
Jesse was more than sports, as he was a kind and towering figure who welcomed me to a new school and called me his friend. Although our lives took separate paths he touched so many peoples lives in a powerful way. Be a peace at last Jess. Bill Roake
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Sam Parker
February 19, 2015
I coached with Jesse at UC Davis in 1982. He was big part of that team's success on the field, but more importantly he was a huge part of the fellowship that team possessed. A great friend and a wonderful person. Sam Parker
Kevin Johnson
February 18, 2015
I remember Jesse playing at Serra, Jesse is a Bay area Legend to me. Glad he is resting with The Lord and at Peace.
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