Jose de Jesus Macias, 77, passed away suddenly but peacefully surrounded by his loving family on February 27, 2026, in Cape Coral, Florida.

Jesse, as he was known, left a legacy of hard work, quiet strength, and a deep devotion to his family and friends.  A serious and dedicated man for much of his life, Jesse was known for his unwavering commitment to providing for those he loved.

Jesse worked for 40 years as a cement finisher in Illinois and was a proud 50+ year member of Operative Plasterers' and Cement Mason.  He approached his trade with skill, discipline, and pride, helping build the foundations that will stand for generations.  His strong work ethic and sense of responsibility were his defining traits and he passed them down to his children and grandchildren.  He carried those values into every aspect of his life.  He loved tinkering around the house, fixing things with his hands, and staying busy with small projects.  Supporting his family was not just a duty for him-it was his purpose and greatest sense of pride.

Though he was serious and focused in his younger years, those who knew him well saw a lighter side emerging later in life.  Jesse embraced a more laid back and easy-going attitude later in life.  He loved camping, traveling, sight seeing, and just enjoying the scenery.  He appreciated the experience of being somewhere new.  He enjoyed boating in Florida and just sitting on the deck.  When he took retirement seriously, he could often be found napping under the trees, or in his gravity chair.  He told everyone, "I am taking five".  That was his favorite quote.  He loved western movies and also found "taking five" in front of the TV.  He was drawn to their timeless stories and rugged characters.

Above all, Jesse cherished his family.  He was a devoted husband for 55 years to his beloved wife, Maria Nilsa Macias, and a proud father to Jesus A. Macias (Sharon), and daughter, Carina Walters (Ken).  Nothing brought him greater happiness than his grandchildren, Gabriella and Hunter Walters, who filled his later years with laughter and pride.  Jesse & Nilsa were snowbirds and when up north they spent many hours traveling and spent many hours on the ball diamonds and soccer fields cheering them quietly from the sidelines.  His love for them was steady, quiet, and unconditional.

He also leave behind his loving 94 year old mother, Maria Pantaleona Ramirez-Macias whose quiet strength and guidance were a foundation in his life.  Their bond was a lasting testament to family devotions across generations.  He also left behind his adoring sister, Consuelo (Jose); his niece, Denise Macias (Edgar) along with their children, Zayden, Azayah, and Elijah.  He is also survived by his brother, Antonio Macias (Lidia).

Jesse will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.  His legacy of strength, resilience, and love will live on in the generation he leaves behind.