JESSE WESLEY BRITTINGHAM, 53, of Marion Station, died Saturday, October 31, 2009 at McCready Memorial Hospital in Crisfield.

Born in Crisfield, Maryland on December 20, 1955, he was the son of Wellington J. "Pal" Brittingham of Marion Station and the late Nina B. Cullen Brittingham who died in 2000.

He was a master carpenter and general contractor who built many beautiful homes in the area. He was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Marion Station, and was Assistant Vice-President of the Crisfield VFW.

Jesse's passion was karate, which he started in 1979. He was Sensei for 25 years and a Roku-DAN 6th Degree Master red and white belt. He was also an avid motorcycle enthusiast who participated in many charitable events, and was especially honored to have been a motorcycle escort for the traveling replica of the Vietnam Memorial. In addition, he donated his hair to "Locks of Love" for several years, was the drummer of the local band "Dixie Outlaws" which he loved, and also enjoyed going fishing. Jesse was a friend to many people of all ages, young and old.

He is survived by his father, Wellington J. "Pal" Brittingham of Marion Station; a son, James Wesley "Jimmy" Brittingham of Seaford, Delaware; a sister, Jewell B. Riggin and her husband, Paul Riggin, III of Marion Station; a nephew, Abraham Riggin of Marion Station; a special friend, Bruce Somers of Crisfield; a special cousin, "Bunk" of Marion Station; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at 2 PM at Bradshaw & Sons Funeral Home in Crisfield where friends may call two hours prior to the service. Father Mike Lokey will officiate. Interment will follow in the Brittingham Family Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are requested to be sent to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Mid-Atlantic, 3411 Silverside Road, Weldin Bldg. Suite 104, Wilmington, DE 19810.

To send condolences to the family, please visit www.bradshawandsonsfuneralhome.com