Jesse Miller IV grew up in Florida, California and New Jersey. He enrolled in Brevard County Community College, but then decided to enlist in the U.S. Navy. After basic and recruit training, he was transferred to his permanent duty station of Fighter Squadron One Hundred Four Three. From day one, Jesse excelled at his command and displayed characteristics of a magnificent leader and role model, according to his wife, Theresa. It was during flight line training that the two met before she was called to duty in the Mediterranean.

On April 19, 2003, Jesse and Theresa were married and several months later their daughter Jahlayla Khalani Miller was born. Jesse was also father to Briajha Khamyl Miller from a previous relationship, and became stepfather to Theresa’s two sons, Jaquavius and Jvaun.

Jesse ended his military career in May 2006 and began working as an air compressor installation technician and repairman. In January 2008, at age 26, he was diagnosed with temporal epilepsy. He began having epileptic episodes more frequently until he encountered a tragic episode during the early morning of March 3, 2009, while Theresa was still on deployment. She was immediately flown home.

“The hospital staff was instrumental in preserving Jesse,” said Theresa. “Our family would like to give a special thanks to the entire nursing staff of The Medical Central of Central Georgia's intensive care unit for going above and beyond to make our friends and family as comfortable as possible. They were a great part of my decision to make my husband an organ donor. We, as a family, are truly honored to be a part of this organization.”