Jessie James “John” Ivey was born February 6, 1947, in a little community off Hwy 82 W - the Hanna Place in Union Springs, Alabama, the son of the late Martha “Honey” and EP “Buddy Boy” Ivey, Sr.

Jessie accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior at Lowfield Baptist Church of Union Springs, AL and later united with County Line AME Zion Church.

He wasn’t afraid to die because he knew someone was waiting beyond the sky. On Sunday morning, July 26, 2015, Jessie was greeted by Jesus, His Mother - Martha, Father--EP, Sister –Jo Mae and brother –Willie C.

Jessie retired from Mounds State Park in 2006.

Jessie leaves to cherish precious memories to three daughters: Jessica Ivey, Etta (Anthony) Pettis of Huntsville, AL and Patrice “Toya” Jones of Fayetteville, NC. Two grandsons: Justin Rogers and Tyler Rogers both of Huntsville, AL. A God Son: Earlie “Ben” Ivey, Jr. of Anderson, IN and a special friend: Christeen Sharkey of Anderson, IN.

Twelve Sisters and Brothers: Iceyphine (John) Menifee, EP (Joyce) Ivey, Jr., James (Ruby) Ivey, Doris (Therrell) Cotton, Claudia Kelley, Bobbie (Jimmie) Nunn, Alonzo (Lois) Ivey, Beverly Ivey, Tommie “Thomas” Ivey, Loretta Ivey, Oliver Ivey, and Earlie (Alfredia) Ivey, Sr. all of Anderson, IN.
God Brothers…… RC Chamberlin of Columbus, IN, Roy (Beverly) Chamberlin, Robert (Robin) Fuller, Nathaniel “Easy” (Victoria) Taylor, Louie (Margaret) Wilkerson all of Anderson, IN.

A Beloved Uncle…Ocie “Lee” (Mozell) Tellis of Anderson, IN.

Along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.