Jesse Walter Singleton

Jesse Walter Singleton, 63, of Saint James, Missouri, passed away peacefully in his home on October 18, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born in St. Louis on February 28, 1962, Jesse was the youngest of 9 children. He spent most of his life in Saint James, where he built deep roots and lasting friendships.
Jesse lived a life defined by service, hard work, and love for his family and community. His childhood years were spent in St. Louis and later Steelville Missouri. After serving his country as a member of the United States Army he returned to Steelville where he was married to Cynthia Thompson. From this union he was blessed with two boys Nathan and Joshua. He developed a passion for printing that led him to a 38 year long career with the Missouri University of Science and Technology print shop. He began his time with Missouri S&T as a press operator and rose through the ranks to ultimately retire as the Manager of Printing and Mail Services. One of his proudest moments during his tenure was being recognized by the St. Pat's Board as an Honorary Knight of St. Patrick. He had considerable interest in local government which led him to run for and be elected to several terms as a member of the Saint James City Council. Jesse also served his community as a long time member and president of the local ambulance board, standing member of the Saint James Planning and Zoning Commission, and dedicated time as a substitute teacher, sharing his kindness and wisdom with students. Jesse coached his son's youth baseball teams for many years and always enjoyed bumping into former players around town who still called him coach. Known for always being willing to lend a helping hand, Jesse was also a skilled craftsman who enjoyed hands-on carpentry and remodeling projects. Among his many interests, he thoroughly enjoyed exercising his lifelong talent of playing guitar. Jesse greatly cherished time spent with his family, especially during the holidays, with Thanksgiving holding a special place in his heart. Above all, Jesse took immense pride in his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Jesse is survived by his sons Nathan Singleton and wife Mindy of Saint James, Missouri, and Joshua Singleton of Saint James, Missouri, as well as his beloved grandchildren Bryce, Blake, and Bailey, who were the light of his life. He is also survived by his former wife Cynthia Singleton; siblings Joyce Gilpin, Willis (Heather) Singleton, Lee (Joe) Finch, Cheryl (Tom) Winter, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents James and Ola Singleton and siblings Ollie "Lou" Singleton, Ina Viviano, Katherine "Kitty" Clark, and Gloria Johnson.
Visitation at James and Gahr Mortuary in Saint James Missouri will be held Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Funeral services, also at James and Gahr Mortuary in Saint James Missouri, will be held on Friday October 24, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Don Carson officiating.