Jesse (Chief) McCoy Minnis, Jr., age 80, departed this life on January 24, 2023, at Lynchburg General Hospital. He was born August 6, 1942, to the late Jesse and Arneta (Reynolds) Minnis, Sr. He was preceded in death by his sister, Carolyn M. Best.

Jesse is survived by his devoted wife, Julia, and four children: son, Douglas of Detroit, Michigan, son, Anthony (Michelle) of Lynchburg, VA, daughter, Kimberly of Lynchburg, VA, and daughter, Titania (Levelle) of Greensboro, NC. Two stepdaughters, Laura of Madison Heights, VA, and Tonya (Louis) of Chesterfield, VA; one goddaughter, Joyce of Peachtree, GA; and one brother, Larry (Vivian) of Big Island, VA. He also has eleven loving grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Additionally, four brothers-in-law and four sisters-in-law; a host of cousins, other relatives, and friends survive Jesse.

Jesse was a Veteran of Foreign Wars. He served honorably in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Sergeant. He served as a Trustee member of the Veterans of Foreign War Post 9877 in Amherst County, VA. After his time in the United States Army, Jesse returned home to Big Island, VA where he began his career at Georgia Pacific and retired after 43 years of service. He also served as Trustee at Sharon Missionary Baptist Church where he was a devoted member until his health failed. Jesse was a member of Big Island Masonic Lodge #316.

Jesse loved the Washington Redskins, Harley Davidson motorcycles, and riding with his buddies. He also enjoyed fishing, boating, and entertaining his family and friends with his witty personality. He continued doing the things he loved until his condition declined.

A homegoing celebration will be held at 3:00 PM Sunday, January 29, 2023, at Sharon Missionary Baptist Church. The burial will be in the church cemetery. Service of comfort rendered by Davis-Turner Funeral Service.