Mr. Jesse Alan Ceballos

February 12, 1971 – December 15, 2024

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Jesse Alan Ceballos-known to many as “Mr. Jesse” or “Big Jess.” was Born on February 12, 1971, just two days before Valentine’s Day, he seemed destined to be everyone’s Valentine from the start. Indeed, his big heart and generous spirit touched every life he entered. Jesse left us far too soon, on December 15, 2024, at the age of 53.

A multi-sport athlete from a young age, Jesse excelled in football, baseball, and basketball, though basketball remained his greatest love. He graduated from Oak Creek High School (Class of 1989) with All-Conference recognition. He continued his passion playing at Carthage College, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree and proudly joining Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Standing 6’5″ with an indomitable competitive streak, he could dominate the boards, hit a three, dunk and still find time to flash a heart-melting smile. A devoted fan of Wisconsin teams-especially the Packers, Brewers, and Bucks-Jesse never missed a chance to debate sports stats, plays, or outcomes with family and friends.

His passions extended beyond the court. From an early age, Jesse was enthusiastic about collecting-starting with sports cards for football, baseball, and basketball. He’d often seek out autographs and cherished his growing bobblehead collection, proudly sharing the latest addition with anyone willing to admire it. As a kid, after Brewers or Bucks games, he was sometimes spotted scouting players’ cars, searching for that next big signature. For Jesse, collecting wasn’t just a hobby; it reflected his boundless excitement for the games he loved and the community around them.

As an educator, “Mr. Jesse” believed every student deserved to feel valued, encouraged, and capable of greatness. His high expectations were matched only by his enormous capacity to love, mentor, and inspire. Students recall his unwavering support and gift for making everyone believe they could achieve their dreams. Beyond the classroom, Jesse’s warmth and quick wit endeared him to friends, family, and anyone lucky enough to cross his path.

Jesse is survived by his loving parents, mother Dona Ceballos and father Dr. Cecil Austin; cherished sisters Debora Austin, Amy Austin (Bernard Gregory, Jr.), and Sarah Ceballos (Jamie Peryam) and his “bonus brother”, Shawn Talley; his beloved son and ‘mini-me,’ Jesse Rutledge; his stepsons Jadonne Rutledge and Estefan Rutledge; and he was immensely proud of his grandson, Austin. He also leaves behind his devoted girlfriend Terece, his ‘adopted’ son Ken Harris, his sister cousin Janay Austin, best friends Ba Anderson and Carl ‘Buc’ Owens, and countless other family members, friends, and students who adored him.

He is preceded in death by Grandparents: Arthur and Elizabeth Morrison, Square and Geraldine Austin. Uncles Alan Morrison and Squire Austin.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 4, 2025- Service at 11:00 AM at Holy Redeemer institutional Church of God in Christ where he taught for many years (3500 W. Mother Daniels Way, Milwaukee, WI 53209). There will be a visitation before the service beginning at 10A until time of service.

In his memory, may we all strive to live as he did: embracing life fully, leading with love and laughter, and uplifting those around us whenever we can. His legacy endures in the countless hearts he touched and in the lessons he taught-about perseverance, compassion, and the power of believing in one another.