Jesse D. Fosdick Sr.

Jesse Duane Fosdick Sr., age 83, a lifelong resident of Savanna, passed away Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Born on January 29, 1943, in Savanna, Illinois, Jesse was the son of Charles and Pearl (Sopko) Fosdick. Growing up he developed a deep and enduring love for his hometown and the surrounding nature. He attended Savanna schools and later met the love of his life, Sue Snow, at his sister Martha’s restaurant in Savanna. Jesse and Sue were married on June 4th, and recently celebrated an incredible 60 years together.

A true "simple man" and a rugged outdoorsman, Jesse made his living as a commercial fisherman on the river for his entire life. Jesse was most at home in nature. If there was a season for it, he was hunting or fishing it, and he proudly passed this passion down to his boys. He loved taking long drives to simply look at the river, hanging out with his buddies, and playing cards, especially Texas Hold 'em and euker.

Jesse lived life exactly the way he wanted to. While he could admittedly be a little stubborn at times, he had a remarkably kind heart and was always the first to help anyone in need. Above all else, Jesse loved his family. He was a proud husband, father, and "Poppa," cherishing every moment spent with his grandchildren. He also had a soft spot for animals, leaving behind his beloved little dog Tigger.

Jesse will be dearly missed by his wife Susan Fosdick; his sons, Chuck (Tina) Fosdick, Jesse (Amy) Fosdick Jr., and Timothy (Renee) Fosdick Sr.; his grandchildren, Jesse Fosdick III, Tyler Fosdick, Austin (Lexi) Fosdick, Paige (Mitch Johnson) Miller, and Timothy (Maya) Fosdick Jr.; his great-grandchildren, Kimberly, Delilah, Eloise, Lexi, Wyatt, and Clementine; his brother, Stanley (Carolyn) Fosdick, and his sisters, Martha Gilmore and Daisy Reynolds. Jesse is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Pearl; his grandson, Timothy Dylan Fosdick; and his siblings Frank and Betty.

A celebration of Jesse’s life will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Law Jones Funeral Home in Savanna. Per the family’s request and in true Jesse fashion, attendees are encouraged to dress casually.