Jesse William Durrence, Jr.

Jesse William Durrence, Jr., a beloved member of the Glennville community, passed away on October 24, 2025, at the age of 92. The lifelong Glennville resident was born on March 3, 1933 to Elder J.W. and Omena (Toy) Tootle Durrence. 

A distinguished veteran, Jesse served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1955 and was a Korean War Veteran. Following his time in the Air Force, he continued his commitment to service by joining the Georgia National Guard, where he was activated during Desert Storm and eventually retired from the National Guard in 1993. His military service was a point of pride for him and reflected his dedication to the country he loved.

Professionally, Jesse retired from the Georgia Department of Corrections as a Vocational Educator, where he made a lasting impact on the lives of many individuals he taught. His commitment to education was matched only by his passion for community service, which he embodied during his six years on the Glennville City Council, including four years as mayor. Jesse's vision and leadership helped to shape the community, and he took great pride in being the last living member of the City Council that initiated the Glennville Sweet Onion Festival, a tradition that would become a cherished event in the town.

Described as very conservative and forthright, Jesse was a man who believed in the importance of truth and sincerity. If you sought his opinion, be prepared for an honest and direct response. Above all, he cherished his family deeply and found immense joy in their companionship.

In his leisure time, Jesse enjoyed working in his garden, taking pride in maintaining a beautifully manicured yard. He also found satisfaction in tinkering with cars and tractors, skills he mastered over the years that provided him with both enjoyment and fulfillment.

He is a member of the Glennville First Baptist Church and is preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Robert Durrence, Mathadeen Kicklighter, and Jackey Durrence; and his son in law, Keith Love.

He is survived by the love of his life, Margaret Durrence of Glennville; his daughters and sons in law, Lisa D. and Mike Austin of Thomaston, Lori D. and Jack Wilson, Leslie D. Love, Jennifer and Derek Bland all of Glennville; grandchildren, Dustin Wilson, Landen Wilson, Lauren (John) Rustin, Tyler (Keily) Austin, Elizabeth (Trey) James, Jenson Bland, Camy Bland (Cayden); 8 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends beginning at 5:00pm on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at the Glennville Funeral Home.  Funeral services will be conducted 12:00pm on Monday, October 27, 2025 from the Chapel of the Glennville Funeral Home with Reverends Brandon Newell and Mike Howard officiating.  Interment will follow in the Georgia Veterans Memorial Cemetery with military honors.

Pallbearers will be Dustin Wilson, Landen Wilson, Tyler Austin, Jenson Bland, Trey James, and John Rustin.

Memorials may be given to the Wounded Warriors Project PO Box 758517 Topeka, KS. 66675.

Glennville Funeral Home has the honor to serve the Durrence Family.