"A good man's prayers will from the deepest dungeon climb heaven's heights and bring a blessing down." Joanna Ballie
Jesse Ree Boone was a good man. He was born February 21,1934 in Huntsville, Texas to the parentage of Ida and Jesse Boone. The family later relocated to the 5th Ward neighborhood in Houston. This presented Jesse the opportunity to attend the historic Phillis Wheatley High School where he was a member of the class of 1955. Following his high school graduation, he served his country by enlisting in the US Army. He was honorably discharged, returned to Houston and began a life dedicated to community service.
Jesse was an active, community-minded citizen who always had an interest in neighborhood happenings. This interest morphed into a lifelong advocacy for community improvements. This advocacy became more pronounced following his marriage to the love of his life Willie Belle Boone. Together, this dynamic duo became well known in democratic political circles throughout this city, state and nation. Jesse was always at Willie Belle's side as they worked together for diversity, inclusion and equality for everyone, particularly their neighbors and citizens in their beloved Sunnyside where they have lived for 60+ years. Jesse and Willie Belle were married for 59 years and were virtually inseparable. In recognition of his outstanding community service, Mayor Bob Lanier mandated November 13, 1993 as Jesse Boone Day in Houston.
Jesse Ree Boone could cook! You were fortunate if you had the pleasure of dining in the Boone home, whether it was a drop-by at dinner time or for their fabulous Super Bowl parties. Professionally, he honed his culinary skills at Houston Methodist and retired after 39 years of distinguished service. When there was leisure time, he enjoyed bowling, volunteering with the United Negro College Fund Bowl-a-Thon, volunteer extraordinaire with Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., Phillis Wheatley Class of 1955 Alumni Association and avid Houston Texans, Rockets and Astros fan. Jesse served for many years with the Adult Usher Ministry at Windsor Village United Methodist Church.
Jesse Ree Boone transitioned Friday, March 1, 2024. He was predeceased by his parents, siblings W.C. Craft, Goree Smith, Mary Carter, Doris Bounty, Leonard Boone and Joyce Faye Boone, sons Rodney Collins and David Mollett. Left to cherish precious memories are devoted wife Willie Belle, granddaughter Geneva "Angel" Williams, son Jesse Boone, special son Charles Fowler and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.