Jesse Ben Roth

Our father, Jesse Ben Roth, a resident of Portland, Texas, for nearly 60 years, passed away in his sleep, on Monday, April 7, 2025, three days after his 101st birthday. He was born on April 4, 1924, to Edward and Sophie Roth in Alice, Texas. Our father was raised in the Corpus Christi and surrounding areas to include Alice, Robstown, Orange Grove, and Ingleside.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary LaRue Roth (Hodgens); his parents; siblings and son-in-law Trey Mellina. He is survived by his daughters, Jacelle Brinkmeyer (Charles), Brenda Mellina, Suzanne Roth Paul (Christian); grandchildren, Benjamin Swain (Rose), Jared Swain, Jacob Brinkmeyer (Jodi), Ryan Mellina, Shane Mellina (Andi), and Austin Paul; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Dad proudly served in the U.S. Navy as Seaman from June 1943 through February 1945. He was honorably discharged in February 1945 due to a medical condition.

Dad retired in 1989 after 25 years of service with ARADMAC (Naval Air Station) as a civilian electrician/ electrical inspector, supervisor, repairing helicopters from the Vietnam War. Prior to that, he worked many years in the jewelry business. He was also the local jewelry, and watch repairman and resource for decades. He was meticulous in every task at hand.

Dad was an avid gardener, enjoyed deer and turkey hunting, and spending time with his many friends and family. Never stopped from being busy.

He was a long time member of Bethel Baptist Church, Ingleside, Texas. Jesse loved and cherished his church family and will be dearly missed.

Dad was affectionately locally known as the Peppermint Man, as he carried a pocket full of peppermints he lovingly distributed to all. He always put a smile on your face. The family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude for the compassion and care that he was shown to him by his caregivers, Kimberly, Maria, Aida, Victoria, Cynthia, Janie, Susan and Arlen. Your help in the most trying times will never be forgotten by our family.

A memorial service will be held at Bethel Baptist Church on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 1:00 pm. He will then be taken to his final resting place at Memory Gardens Cemetery at 4:00 pm. 

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to The American Cancer Society or your favorite charity/organization.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads’ Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com