Jesse Uzzell

1937 - 2025

Jesse Uzzell

October 7, 1937 - February 26, 2025

Durham, North Carolina - Master Sergeant Jesse L. Uzzell, United States Air Force, Retired, slipped the surly bonds of Earth, and joined his Heavenly Father and those who went before him in the early morning hours of February 26, 2025. A native of Goldsboro, North Carolina, and long-time resident of Durham, North Carolina, he was born in October 1937 to Pete Uzzell and Dora Kornegay. He married Ernestine S. Merriweathers, also a Goldsboro, North Carolina native, and the two would travel the world during his 20-year military career and later return to the Tarheel state. They would be together until her death in January of this year.

In addition to his wife, Ernestine, Jesse was preceded by his mother, father, his brothers Eddie B. and James, his sister Annie Lois, three half-brothers: Emmitt, Cleveland and Willie Lee, and a half-sister, Rosa Lee Uzzell Williams. His only son, whom Jesse loved greatly, Lawrence "Tony" Uzzell, went ahead to Heaven almost 10 years ago and his absence was felt daily.

Jesse is survived by his daughter, Lt Col Karon (Ron) Uzzell-Baggett, USAF, Retired, and one granddaughter, Kathleen Baggett. His three step-grandchildren: Christina (Charles) Forrest, Major Brian (Alita) Baggett, USA, Retired, and Adam (Ala) Baggett, blessed him with six great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. Other surviving relatives include sister-in-law, Melba Smith Uzzell, his beloved nieces: Alice Lloyd, Marie Isler, Barbara Jean Waters, Marilyn Givens, and Dr. Kamala (Adrian) Uzzell-Jones; nephews: Thera Uzzell and Kenyatta (Kahni) Uzzell, who brought great pride; and a host of grandnieces, grandnephews, cousins and friends in Goldsboro, Durham, and around the world.

Education always played a critical role in Jesse's life, and he viewed a good education as the gateway to opportunity. He graduated from Central High School and would remain a strong life-long supporter of the school's Central Alumni and Friends, Inc. When he joined the United States Air Force, he pursued all levels of technical and professional military education. Jesse received his Associates of Arts degree from the University of the State of New York, his Bachelor of Science degree from Campbell College, and his Master of Arts degree from Central Michigan University.

Jesse proudly served his country in duty stations ranging from Japan to New York to Michigan before returning to Goldsboro, where he originally started his military career, to retire after 20 years of service. He also served two tours in Vietnam as part of an aeromedical evacuation unit. He would inspire others to serve in the military by his examples of dedication and professionalism.

After retirement from the military, Jesse continued to champion education when he joined the staff of Durham Technical Community College. He held numerous positions at the school, but was most fulfilled as the Program Director, Health Extension, Law Enforcement, and Fire Service Training. In his 24 years at the institution, he supported the training of countless first responders, mentored every student he encountered, and made lifelong friends.

Jesse is in the fine care of Howell Funeral Home and Crematory in Goldsboro. His visitation will be on Friday, March 14, 2025, starting at 12 p.m. EST, followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. EST. Jesse will immediately be laid to rest following the service at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery with full military honors.