Celebrating Black History: Remembering the legacy of James O. Jessie

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - For Black History Month, News Channel 3 will be spotlighting Black trailblazers and pioneers who've had a significant impact on the Coachella Valley community. James O. Jessie was the director for parks and recreation in Palm Springs, and the manager for the Desert Highland Unity Center for decades. He was known to community members as "Uncle James."

He was well-known for empowering youth by encouraging them to participate in sports and enjoy the outdoors. He founded the Desert Highland drill team and drum squad, and often took youth on field trips to experience life outside of Palm Springs.

In 2000, he took the kids on an annual fishing trip. On the trip, one boy started drowning. After jumping in the water to save the young boy, the current took James O. Jessie, ultimately leading to his death.

Stay with News Channel 3 to hear more about his legacy from his two daughters.