Jesiah Marquise Gardner passed away unexpectedly at the age of 18 on February 21, 2023. Jesiah was currently a junior at Hirschi High School where he was an active member of the ROTC and band programs. His greatest aspiration was to become a pilot in the United States Air Force. Jesiah was very passionate about his role in ROTC. His freshman year he was named Hirschi’s Cadet of the Year and was a member of the rifle team and color guard. He always went above and beyond to help other cadets reach their full potential. Jesiah was a proud saxophone player for the Big Blue Band from Husky Land. He was always the life of the band whether it was on the field or in the stands. Jesiah was also involved with the football team his freshman and sophomore year. His teachers knew that he was a special young man who was extremely hardworking, but it is his friendly and kind spirit that they will always remember. Jesiah's generous heart, infectious smile, and kind spirit touched many lives during his time at Hirschi.
Jesiah was currently employed by Wendy’s and previously worked at Yogurt Journey and Chick-Fil-A. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing video games, riding his motorcycle, and listening to music.
Jesiah is preceded in death by his beloved cat Chingy who he is now rejoicing with.
Jesiah is survived by the light of his life, his mother Anita; beloved brothers, Tyron Potts, Jdyn Gardner, Jamajae O’Neal, and Jqhorian Potts; sister, Keonna Potts; nephew, Jbraylon Potts; niece, Jacciana Potts; and soon to be niece, Chosiana Jesiah Potts. During his time on earth, God blessed Jesiah with additional parents, Chris and Kristin Howard; and brother and sister, Cayden and Kinsley Howard. Additional survivors include his father and step-mother, Tony and Monica Boyd; grandparents, Lawrence and Nelda Pickens of Gold Bar, Washington; aunts, Patti Berger and Melissa McNerney; uncle, Lewis Potts and wife Malinda; bonus aunt, Katrina Griffin; previous teacher and role model, Mr. Carrasco; his loving cat Benzo; and a host of other biological and bonus relatives.
Although Jesiah's struggles were just too much for him to handle, his loving heart has left a beacon of light for all who knew him. He touched every life he met and will always be known for the love and joy he brought so many. Jesiah had big dreams to earn his wings one day as a United States Air Force pilot, but God felt he was ready to earn his forever wings instead.
This scholarship was established in Jesiah's honor by his family and is sponsored by Yogurt Journey along with donations collected through the WFISD Foundation. At least one $500 scholarship will be awarded each year.