He was raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts. After graduating from New Bedford High School, he joined the United States Air Force during the Vietnam Era from 1961-1965. During that time, he was Golden Gloves Boxing fighter in the Air Force.
He moved back to Columbus, Georgia in 1972. For over 20 years, he was a highly skilled long-haul Truck Driver with Watkins Truck Company on Victory Drive. He also worked for Georgia Power Company as a truck driver delivering transformers and utility poles. He officially retired in 2009.
Jessie was proceeded in death by his parents: Obbie Snellings Sr. and Estella Walker; brother: Obbie Snellings Jr. His memories will be celebrated by his wife of eighteen years, Pamela Snellings; daughters: Sarah Joyce Glover, and Tasah Snellings; sons: Jessie Snellings, Kris Rutherford, Marcus(Takara)Snellings, Wyndell(Starr) Snellings, and Jessie Ta’ron(Madalyn) Snellings; grandchildren: Tamesia Johnson, Tenesha (James) Ruffins, Terrell (Larry) Wright, Teontia Johnson; great-grandchildren: Tichina (James) Hall, Tandrieka Francois, Vonnesha Francois, and Telera Johnson; one brother: Willie H. Snellings Sr.; niece: Gail Snellings; nephews: Willie H. Snellings, Jr.,(USMC Ret), Reginald K. Snellings (Navy Ret); faithful companion, his dog: Setto and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.