Jesse Johnson

Jesse Wilbur Johnson, born Aug. 26, 1989, in Wolf Point, Mont., passed away on Oct. 25, 2026. He was a man of faith, quick wit and a tender heart, and his loss leaves a space that cannot be filled. He was 37 years old and made his final home at Fort Peck Lake, a place he loved with his whole heart.

Jesse got his start at his family’s restaurant, Old Town Grill, where he became an excellent cook and server. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, and he took real pride in giving customers a good dining experience.

It was there that he met Echo Clark, with whom he had his daughter, Jamari. A few years later, he welcomed his son, Arrec, with Cerra Pipe. Jesse was endlessly proud of his children and loved them deeply, delighting in every chance to play with them.

Jesse’s life was not without struggle. He fought bravely against addiction and depression, going to rehab four times. It was at UTurn 4 Christ that he found the Lord and was saved, and his sobriety because one of his greatest sources of pride. He credited that victory to Jesus, whom he loved deeply.

That faith carried him into meaningful work, first at NE Montana Mental Health, where he met Courtney Gagne, the love of his life, and where he became a state-licensed peer support specialist, helping others battle addiction. He later worked for Cornerstone, caring for the elderly in their homes.

Those who knew Jesse remember his gift for turning his own life experiences into stories that left everyone laughing. He loved music and would entertain his family with his dance moves, loved skateboarding with friends, wakeboarding and tubing with the kids and walking his beloved dog, Covi. Nothing made him happier than family reunions at the lake.

Jesse is survived by his daughter, Jamari Johnson; his son, Arrec Pipe; his parents, Jim and Linda Johnson; his sisters, Loni Johnson and Carly Hibl; his nephew, Walter Hibl; and his niece, Ayla Paulson.

We should all be aware of the dangers of depression. It was one of those dark times when we lost Jesse. While we grieve the heavy burdens he carried in silence, we find profound peace knowing he never walked alone. He loved the Lord deeply, and we hold fast to the promise of Hebrews 13:5, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Even in his darkest moments, Jesse was held securely by a Savior whose love never lets go, and now he is resting in perfect eternal peace.

A small family gathering has been held at Fort Peck Lake.

(Paid Obituary)