Jesse Calderon

Jesus “Jesse” Calderon, 90, of Temple, Texas, passed peacefully from this life on March 5, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and devotion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Jesse was born June 15, 1935, in Temple, Texas to Aurora and Pedro Nieto. He was raised by his step father, Manuel Calderon, in Central Texas, and completed his education through the eighth grade before beginning a life of hard work and service to others. Jesse later became both a pastor and a skilled upholsterer through his work with Calderon Upholstery, using his talents to provide for his family and serve his community.

A man of deep faith, Jesse dedicated much of his life to sharing the love of Christ with others. His greatest goal in life was to bring as many people as possible to know the Lord. Those who knew him remember his wisdom, his guidance, and the encouragement he freely gave to anyone who needed it. To many, he was not only a pastor but also a mentor and trusted friend.

Jesse found joy in the simple moments of life. He loved gathering with family and friends around the dining room table to play games and spend time together. His grandchildren especially remember rides in his car to the post office, where he would have them spell every word to each other as a way to practice spelling. Jesse also enjoyed painting and drawing, often creating artwork to share with family and friends. In quiet moments he could often be found reading his Bible or spiritual growth books, or listening to music by Hank Williams Sr.

He was known for his memorable sayings and for the words of encouragement he shared with his family. One of his favorite phrases was to say “Charge!” right after praying for a meal. During family gatherings he often reminded his loved ones, “Never turn loose of your faith. Stay close to the Lord and always be in the Word.”

Jesse was preceded in death by his father, Pedro Nieto; his stepfather, Manuel Calderon; his mother, Aurora Calderon; his brothers, Andrew Nieto and Joe Calderon; and his sisters, Linda Martinez and Rita Nieto.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lydia Calderon; his son, Randy Calderon (Peggy); and his daughter, Diane Calderon Flow (Mike): his brothers Pete Jr. Nieto, Johnny Nieto, and Fremensio Calderon, and his sisters Benita Schramme, Patricia Schnell, Alice Tobar, Teresa Medrano, and Helen Jimenez-Suringa.

Jesse’s legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren Adriana Calderon Lopez (Juan), Shawn Flow (Alex), Jacob Calderon, and Shane Flow (Destenne), as well as his cherished great-grandchildren Sofia Flow, Mariana Lopez, Stella Flow, Lilyana Lopez, Luziana Lopez, Emersyn Flow, Xander Flow, Jesse Flow, and Riley Flow.

Jesse will be remembered as a faithful servant of God, a loving husband and father, a proud grandfather, and a man whose life was devoted to faith, family, and encouraging others to walk with the Lord.

A visitation in Jesse‘s honor will be held on Thursday, March 19th from 6 to 8 PM at Harper Talasek funeral home in Temple, Texas. Funeral services will be the following day, Friday, March 20th, at 10 AM at Harper Talasek funeral home in Temple Texas.

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