Jesse Brad Linsley, a man of high character and devotion to those he loved, passed away Sunday morning on November 30, 2025, at the age of 69 years.

Jesse was born in Rome, NY and raised in San Jose, CA.  A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, he served for 13 years as a Staff Sargent and Crew Chief earning numerous awards including the Air Force Achievement Medal.  He subsequently served 35 years with the US Postal Service in Newport News, VA.  Jesse loved sports and was a member of his school's track team.  He found life to be at its fullest when he pushed himself to the limit, so he enjoyed high octane hobbies like bungee jumping, skydiving, whitewater rafting and the occasional supersonic flight in a F-16 fighter jet when he served in the US Air Force.  Each day was an opportunity to do something worthwhile and adventurous.

An avid sports fan, Jesse loved watching his favorite teams play each season - UT Vols, LA Dodgers, Lakers and Rams.  Most importantly, Jesse loved God and His word with all of his heart.

Jesse was lovingly known as the family’s jokester and mumbler.  He was unapologetically himself and was naturally a character who brought everyone unforgettable moments of hilarity and joy.  His smile was charming, his eyes kind, and his laugh comforting.  Jesse was the constant reminder to see the humor in life.  We will carry his warmth and love with us every day, until we meet him again.

Jesse was an active member of Calvary Assembly of God in Hampton, VA and most recently, City Hills Church in Knoxville TN.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Tinker Linsley; son, Micah (Sherin) Linsley; grandsons, Blake and Tanner; father, Jesse Linsley; brother, Scot (Wendy) Linsley; nephews, Jesse (June) and James (Bere) Linsley; father-in-law, John (Sharon) Watkins; sister-in-law, Andrea (Scott) Gaff; brother-in-law, Perry (Pam) Watkins; nieces, Jessica (David) Morgan and Brandy (Mike) Bridges; and nephews, Jacob (Emily) Union and Zachary Watkins. He was preceded in death by his mother, Carnation Ortega.

WEATHER UPDATE -  Due to the snow and travel conditions, we need to reschedule the Celebration of Life service. We are working to move it to Sunday and will keep everyone updated as soon as plans are confirmed. We truly appreciate your love, understanding, and continued support.

(A Celebration of Life will be held on January 31, 2026, at Trinity Community Church, 6706 Central Avenue Pike, Knoxville, TN 37912, from 1 p.m.)

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor his memory may contribute to a funeral expense fund supporting his beloved wife.      https://gofund.me/11c99dc46

For the convenience of out-of-town friends, a block of rooms has been reserved at The Holiday Inn, 5634 Merchants Center Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37912 (865-687-8989). Reservations must be made by January 16.

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