In loving memory of
Jesse “Hank” Brittain Bird, III

• July 26, 1948
• -
• May 24, 2025

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In Loving Memory of Jesse Brittain Bird III (Hank) July 26, 1948 – May 24, 2025
Jesse Brittain Bird III, lovingly known to all as “Hank,” passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025, in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, surrounded by the people he cherished most—his family. He was 76 years old.
Born on July 26, 1948, in Floral Park, New York, Hank was the son of Jesse Bird Jr. and Audrey Mae Jenson Bird, who preceded him in death. He grew up with a strong sense of family, a value he carried throughout his life and passed down to future generations.
Hank is survived by his devoted children, Marie & James Gillespie of Acworth, GA, Kim & Rob Skeen of Brevard, NC, and Betsey Clemons of Buffalo, NY, who brought him endless pride and joy. He was a deeply loved grandfather to six grandchildren: Jimmy Gillespie, Bobby Gillespie, Cedar Ann Skeen, Lillian Skeen, Ella Clemons, and Sophia Clemons, who knew him as a warm, steady presence in their lives—full of love, laughter, and stories. He also leaves behind his siblings, Bud Bird(Sharon Bird), Mary Pat Bird Myers, and Barbara Bird, who stood beside him through life’s journey.
Hank was a man of strength and deep loyalty. He worked hard all his life. A proud and passionate Florida Gators fan, Saturdays in the fall were sacred. He found joy on the golf course and had a deep love of the game, always up for a round or a replay on TV. But his greatest happiness came from simply being with those he loved—whether at a family gathering, on the sidelines of a grandchild’s game, or around the dinner table laughing with his grandkids.
He will be missed beyond words and remembered with hearts full of gratitude for the time we were given with him.
A celebration of Hank’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by spending time with those you love—and never missing a Gator game.
Rest easy, Dad. We’ll carry you with us, always.