Jessie E. Claxton
March 13, 1951 – March 3, 2020
A service to commemorate Jessie’s life will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. at Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home, 917 S. Burdick St. Kalamazoo. Friends may call on the family one hour prior to the service at the funeral home beginning at 12:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, c/o the funeral home.
Obituary
Age 68, passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2020. Jessie was born in Kalamazoo, on March 13, 1951, the daughter of LaMarr and Betty (Drake) Smith. She was married to Jack Claxton who survives her. Jessie loved the sun and being on vacation. She and Jack did a lot of travelling with their custom cars. She was known to more than just her daughters as “mom.” Jessie had so many friends because of her infectious personality. She and Jack owned and ran the Mayhem Women’s Football Team. No matter what the event, she loved being with her family. Nothing was more important to Jessie than Jack, their girls, and their grandchildren. Besides her husband, she is survived by her daughters, Michele Cousino of Temperance, Laurie (Ken Auger) Prater of Temperance, Sarah Claxton of Kalamazoo; grandchildren, Nichole (Matty) Dandron, Mitchel (Allison) Cousino, Jake (Maggie) Cousino, Alison Cousino, Lindsi Prater, Jaylen Claxton; great-grandchildren, Sophia and Emmaline Dandron; sister, Marrla (Rob) Meyers of Kalamazoo; brother in law, Dick (Louisa) Claxton of Costa Rica; nieces and nephews; countless friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, and two sisters.
Enjoy the beach and the sun, you will be missed!
So many memories and travels with Jessie and Jack! At one party in particular at my parents house in Comstock we had the cars lined up in the front yard and volleyball going on the top of the hill by the house. We were lucky enough to have a close encounter with a hot air balloon that was about as low as it could go without landing on us. Jessie yelled nice balloon and they yelled nice nails! There are many stories like this that we will remember and talk about for years to come. Our thoughts are with all of you right now.
Oh my!!! We are SO sorry to hear about Jessie’s passing from this earth! We knew her when they were with the Mayhem, and have many fond memories of her from that time. Our condolences go out to all of you, Jack and family! Hugs, prayers and love to each and every one of you. Sincerely, the Gacs
Oh Jessie, we did a lot of fun trips, cruises, Vegas, too much to mention. Such good times and laughs . We will miss your lovely heart
I will never forget the embrace and tears shared after beating the New York Sharks…….. it truly was an honor and privelege knowing and working for you,. Rest in Peace Jesse