James A. Sesson, Sr.

James A. Sesson was born on June 26, 1934, in Coldwater, Mississippi, to the late Mr. and Mrs. Sidney and Marie Sesson. He later married Dorothy Tunstall Sesson, and together they were blessed with four children.

In 1954, James relocated to Benton Harbor, Michigan, in pursuit of opportunity and a better future. After establishing himself, he sent for his family, including his siblings, helping to build roots that would span generations within the community.

James worked faithfully for many years at Michigan Standard Alloy. Known affectionately as JJ, he was an entrepreneur at heart. He opened JJ’s Fish Market on the corner of Broadway and Empire, a neighborhood staple remembered by many. Shortly thereafter, he expanded his vision by opening JJ’s Grill Restaurant, where his legendary burgers and fries became a local favorite.

James had a deep love for fishing, hunting, and golf, passions that brought him joy and peace throughout his life. He was also well known for buying, repairing, and selling appliances. If you needed a washer, dryer, refrigerator, or stove, you could simply call Mr. JJ and trust the job would be done right.

James leaves to cherish his memory his beloved children, Daughters, Robin “Neicy” Sesson of Zion, Illinois, Darlene Sesson and Hope Lewis both of Benton Harbor, Michigan, Jacqueline “Birdie” Thompson of Indianapolis, Indiana, Neadalant “Ann” Washington of Columbus, Ohio; Sons, James Sesson Jr. of Benton Harbor, Michigan, Johnny Taylor Bey and Vincent Hegar both of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Michael Hegar of Colorado and Cain Washington of Columbus, Ohio; two siblings: Callie Logan of Detroit, Michigan and Ray Thomas Sesson of Benton Harbor, Michigan; one aunt, Allie Bell of Olive Branch, Mississippi; bonus daughter, Melinda “Moochie” Washington of Columbus, Ohio; a special niece, Gwendolyn Sidney Sesson; eighteen grandchildren; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney and Marie Sesson; his wife, Dorothy Sesson; five siblings, Lena Edwards, Betty Warren, Joseph Sesson, Bobby Sesson, Jean Sesson, and Robert Sesson; two sons, Bryan Anthony Sesson, and Abel Peter Washington; one son in law, Rodney Lewis; and a very special friend, Anne Williams, who held a meaningful place in his life and whose memory remains cherished.

James A. Sesson leaves behind a legacy of hard work, entrepreneurship, generosity, and love for family and community. His presence will be deeply missed, but his impact will forever remain.

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