Jesse Leazer

Mr. Jesse Julius Leazer, 81, of Apison, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, following a period of declining health.

Jesse was born on April 5, 1943, in Laurinburg, North Carolina, the son of the late Jesse and Margaret (Sweat) Leazer. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two daughters, Desirae Leazer and Melissa Walraven; sister, Pearl Dail; brothers, Johnny Leazer and Lloyd Leazer. He grew up in the Mill village of East Laurinburg and graduated from high school in 1962. Jesse was always a hard worker. As a senior in high school, he would attend school for a half-day and then go and work at Waverly Mills for four hours, and on Saturdays, he worked eight-hour days at the mill. He was very proud of being able to help support his four siblings and save enough money to purchase the first family car. He was awarded a full scholarship to North Carolina State but decided to join the United States Army.

Jesse was a veteran of the United States Army, having served two tours in Panama and Vietnam. His career was always in the carpet industry, from starting as production manager for Karastan Carpets to several times owning his own business. His work took him from North Carolina to California and then back to the South. Eventually, he became Vice President of manufacturing for Mohawk Industries. His last career move was a partnership with Kenneth Owens. It was a good fit for both parties.

Jesse loved golf, spending time with his family, watching NASCAR, and serving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Survivors include his wife, Edith “Jan” Turner Leazer, to whom he was married for 39 years; daughters Robin “Curtis” Bolton of Coarsegold, California, Kristine Hannifin of Richmond Hills, GA, Lenee “Jacob” Evers, and Gina Spillers of Calhoun, GA; and sister LaVon Williams of McCall, SC. Several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews also survive.

A graveside service will be conducted on Saturday, December 28th, at 3:30 PM in Chandler Cemetery, with Heath Walraven and Tim Chaney officiating. The United States Army Honor Guard will accord military honors. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday, December 28th, between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

Pallbearers serving include Jacob Evers, Brian Hannifin, Larry House, Daniel Walraven, David Hannifin, and Raymond Hobby. Honorary pallbearers include James Hannifan, Joshua Hannifin, Porter Evers, Jessica Brunni, and Samantha Jones.

The Brannon family and staff are honored to serve the Leazer family.