Obituary published on Legacy.com by Ferrara Colonial Mortuary - Orange on Nov. 15, 2025.
Jesse Athanasius Metoyer passed away peacefully at his home in
Orange, California, on October 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Jesse's life was a testament to his steadfast catholic faith and enduring love for his family.
Born on May 6, 1941, in Melrose, Louisiana, Jesse spent his early years in the South before his family moved west to Los Angeles in search of greater opportunities. He graduated from Mount Carmel Catholic School and later earned an associate degree in Piping Engineering and Design from Los Angeles City College. His 36-year career in the oil refinery and pipeline industry began and concluded with Parsons Corporation, where he worked as a Materials Controller.
At sixteen, Jesse began working at St. Vincent's Hospital alongside a group of friends who would horse around a lot with good-natured antics. It was there that he met the love of his life, Frances Cecilia Rohas. Frances thought these boys were immature! But in time, fate intervened when a planned double date left the two of them alone. That first date, on August 22, 1958, began a love story that would span more than six decades. After five years of courtship, their marriage of over 62 years was filled with devotion and the joy of raising five children.
Affectionately known as "Pops," Jesse was the heart of every gathering-strong yet gentle, with a softspoken presence that brought comfort to all. A longtime bowler, he loved joining his children in bowling leagues and ran twelve marathons alongside them. He proudly supported his children and grandchildren at their sporting and school events. He enjoyed family fantasy football leagues, camping trips with his grandchildren, and dancing with his sweetheart Frances, his favorite partner, at weddings and celebrations.
Known for his thoughtful nature, signature phrases like "Good Golly!" and ever-present handkerchief, Jesse's warmth and caring touched everyone he met. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and loyal friend. His greatest joy was simply being surrounded by those he loved. Jesse will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and quiet acts of service, whether cleaning the pool for family gatherings, helping friends and loved ones move, or quietly carrying dishes to the kitchen. He never sought attention or praise, finding happiness instead in caring for others in his own humble ways.
Jesse leaves behind his beloved "Sweetheart,"-his devoted wife Frances; sons Jesse (Drew), Bryan, his wife Apryl, and Robert, his wife Margie; and daughters Yvette, her husband Simon, and Alicia (Cici), her husband Jesse; sixteen grandchildren-Brittany, Ashley, Dakota, Sydney, Brayden, Kyle, Zane, Brody, Leilani, Sebastian, Christian, Brooke, Skyler, Landon, Isabella, and Colvin; and great-grandsons Atticus and Cassius; and siblings Anna Metoyer, Linda Boehle and Anthony Metoyer.
Jesse's life was a reflection of love and family. He will be profoundly missed. Memories will be forever cherished in the hearts of all who were touched to know him and embedded deep within those who loved him dearly.
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