Jesse Rondal McBride

Jesse Rondal McBride, 81, of Rockford, IL, passed away on January 9th, 2026, at Swedish American Hospital following a brief illness. Jesse was born on February 13, 1944, in Wardell, Missouri, to Louise (Meatte) and Jesse McBride.

A hard worker, Jesse held many jobs over the years, including positions at Atwood Industry, National Can, Slabaugh Construction, K-Pups Underground Dog Fencing, and Sunrise Restaurant.

Jesse found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He could be found visiting local coffee shops in places like Doc’s, Sunrise, 3 B’s, Spring Garden, and many others, where conversations and familiarity meant everything to him. He loved tinkering with cars. He had a love for gambling, football, animals, pinball machines, and WWF wrestling. Jesse will be remembered for his gentle spirit and the quiet ways he showed he cared for those around him. He was a loving father to all his daughters, teaching them that life is about having fun, playing often, and don’t take life too seriously.

The family would like to give special thanks to Rachel King for her tender care and love for Jesse, and also to all his friends at the coffee shops/restaurants in town.

Jesse is survived by his significant other, Sandra King; children, Ronica Schafer and Tina (Ryan) Theien; stepchildren, Lorinda Bates and Rian Harris; grandchildren, Emily and Jason Schafer, Jack and Kate Theien, Michael Stein, and Destiny Harris; sister, Mary Emmons (East Prairie, MO); nephew, David Emmons; daughter of his significant other, Rachel (Justin) King; dearly beloved cat of 17 years, Snowflake; many other nieces, nephews, and relatives. Predeceased by his parents, Jesse and Mildred “Louise” McBride; brothers, Billy and Eugene McBride.

A funeral service will be held for Jesse on Thursday, January 15th, 2026, at Honquest Family Funeral Home with Crematory, 4311 N. Mulford Rd. Loves Park, IL, 61111, at 2:00 PM, with a visitation starting at 1:00 PM. Cremation rites will be accorded.

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