William Gordon “Jesse” James passed away on Dec. 3, 2024 at the age of 84.

Born in Oshawa, Ont., on Feb. 24, 1940, Jesse lived a life filled with passion, joy and dedication to his family, friends and his lifelong love of horse racing.

Jess was born in 1940 to parents John Virtue James and Carolyn Ruth Cook. In 1960, Jesse married his first love, Jackie (nee Tripp, 1942-1997). They raised four beloved children, Kim, Todd (Shelly), Lisa (Craig), and Tyler (Rena). His 12 grandchildren, Olivia, Auberley, Firen, Briar, Cody, Colton (Kayla), Tyler, Molly, Ella, Owen, Forrest, and Cyrus, and great grandchildren Jack, Bowden and Ember, brought pride and light into his life.

Jesse found love again with Deborah (2023), his steadfast partner of 25 years. He embraced Deborah’s children, Ben (Judith) and Justin (Dana), and was a committed grandfather to their children, Rowan, Keaton, Holly, and Cadence.

Jesse is also survived by his loving siblings: his sister, Carol (Wayne); sister, Linda (late husband Allen); his brother, Tom (Marie); and all of their children.

He leaves behind a family who will forever hold his memory close, honouring the lessons he shared and life he built.

Jesse’s love for horse racing and entrepreneurship defined much of his life. Jesse was called to be a horseman at the age of 10 years old having received his first horse in exchange for work from his grandfather Harry. Always a hard worker, he worked in western Canada ranching in his teenage years, riding in the Calgary Stampede and championship barrel-racing in rodeos in his early 20s, he built horse trailers, and after marrying and starting a family, he bought his first Standardbred horse, Long Deals Lad in the early 1970s.

He found unparalleled joy in Standardbred horse racing. Among his proudest achievements was Cedar Shake, who was a two-year-old and three-year-old Ontario Sires Stakes Gold winner and was invited to race at the Elitloppet races in Stockholm, Sweden, commonly regarded as one of the most prestigious international events in trotting. He was involved in horse racing up to his last days, always watching the horses train from the big bay window of his living room -- and always giving his opinion.

Beyond these achievements, Jesse was a man of determination, loyalty, humour and helpfulness. He always wanted to help others whether it be by lending a tool or funds to help someone else live out their dreams or get through tougher times. He was a loyal friend and held a deep belief that his friends and family would take care of him as he would take care of them. His last days were testament to this with a steady parade of people coming to say their goodbyes, a send off in style with hours of toasting and celebrating, reminiscing, laughing and crying about all the amazing moments of his life -- all of which he loved and cherished every moment. He was a great storyteller who loved to share tales of his adventures, trials and accomplishments. His playful spirit endeared him to all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Jesse James.