Jessie Torres Cortez, was born on October 26, 1977 to Jessie and Helen Cortez in Sugarland, Texas. After high school, he joined the Navy and served his country for 7 years. On February 14, 2000, Jessie married the love of his life Cynthia Lewis - Cortez in St. Augustine, Florida. He was employed for 15 years as a manager at many restaurants including Wendy’s, Taco Bell and Sonic. Later, he started working for St. Johns County School Transportation for 3 years as a school bus driver. He chose this field to spend more quality time with his family. Jessie enjoyed spending time with the kids, going to the parks, swimming, soccer, and picnics with the girls. He was a family man and truly devoted his time to his kids. Previously, he was a member of Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church. He attended New Life Church of Jacksonville under the leadership of Bishop Billy W. White. He also attended bible study at New Life Church of St. Augustine.

Jessie was preceded in death by stepson, Anthony Lewis.

He leaves to cherish his memories a loving and devoted wife, Cynthia Lewis-Cortez; son, Christian A’dore Cortez; daughters, Makayla Cortez and A’Tanji Cortez; stepsons, Arthur Dye and Antwaun Williams; stepdaughter, Aleiya Rush; parents, Jessie and Helen Cortez; father in law, Roosevelt T. Lewis, Sr. of Tampa, FL; mother in law, Lorraine (Randall) Shaw of Picolata, FL; brother, Jose Armand (Maria) Cortez of Houston, TX; sister, Veronica Cortez of Houston, TX; brother in laws, Roosevelt (Shalonda) Lewis Jr. of Jacksonville, FL and Domonic Lewis of Elwood, FL; sister in law, Lorrie (Ryan) Sarver of Orange Park, FL; and a host of sorrowing uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

There will be a viewing 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, 833 Pearl Street, St. Augustine, Florida 32084. Rev. Cecil L. King, Interim Pastor.

Celebration of Life service will be immediately following the viewing at 12:00 P.M.on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church.