VAN LANDINGHAM, JESSE L.

Jesse Leon Vanlandingham was born May 11, 1921, near Temple to Ida Elizabeth and John Walter Vanlandingham Sr. He passed away Tuesday, Aug. 18, 2015, at the Norman Veterans Center, at the age of 94.

Jesse married Ruth Anderson in 1944. They had three sons, John (who preceded him in death), Larry and Steve; daughter-in-law, Patti Vanlandingham; five grandchildren, Lara Thedford, Jason and Zac Vanlandingham and Jessica and Julie Vanlandingham; three great-grandsons; and several nephews and nieces.

Jesse Leon was a member of Col. Carson’s 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, participated in the battle of Midway, survived The Long Patrol, was wounded on Guadalcanal and received a medical discharge.

He spent 13 years as an insurance adjuster, branch manager and storm office supervisor with G.A.B. until 1963 and had his own claims business in Ardmore until 1970. He settled claims nationwide from Florida to Alaska for the next 15 years.

Jesse researched genealogy of the Vanlandingham and wrote and published a book of the family history and lineage. He was an avid golfer, was always there for his family and was a great provider.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation and thanks to the Norman Veterans Center, Dr. Bernhardt, Dr. Adam, the Norman VA staff and Valir Hospice for their wonderful care.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Valir Hospice and the Norman VA.

Jesse Leon requested to be cremated and that no services be hosted. A family gathering will be organized at a later date.

Cremation services were under the direction of Moore Funeral & Cremation.