Jesse Cottonham, sometimes known as “Uncle Jesse”, is a founding Partner with NBCC. He was born and raised in San Francisco where he still lives a short walk away from the neighborhood in which he grew up.
Jesse retired from PG&E in January 2018 after a 34+ year career in the electric organization. He held various positions during his career including Lineman, Troubleman (first responder), Electric Supervisor, and Human Performance Specialist investigating serious injuries and electrical safety incidents.
Jesse also has over twenty-five years of experience as Youth Director and leader; teaching and mentoring churched and unchurched children, and youth and young adults creating excitement around a growing commitment to Christ-centered living. Furthermore, he served as a Deacon at St. John Missionary Baptist Church (SJMBC) in San Francisco caring for and supporting families and taught Sunday School and Bible study classes.
Jesse also served on Board of Directors of Old Skool Café, a faith-based, violence prevention program that provides job training for at-risk youth.
Jesse was raised in a Christian home and baptized Catholic as an infant. He attended catechism as a youth, had his Confirmation as a teenager and began attending SJMBC in his late teens. As a young husband and father, he realized he couldn’t be what God created him to be without Jesus at the center of his life. As a result, Jesse was re-baptized by immersion and became a full member of SJMBC.
Prior to becoming the Redwood City Campus Pastor, Jesse served as NBCC’s Director of Life Groups. His journey continues as he listens and responds to God’s calling on his life. Many of us experience that amazing moment when God whispers into our hearts, and as a result, everything becomes clear. Sometimes we run, sometimes we don’t listen, and then there is that one time when we do just as Psalms 46:10 says, “Be still and know That I Am”. Each day he is excited to experience the opportunities God gives him to grow more like Jesus.
Jesse is married to his High School sweetheart, Pally, and celebrated 44 years of marriage in August 2022. They have two adult children, Trinece Wade (Anthony), Jesse Chaz (Grace), and four grandchildren, Nia Grace, Nya Joy, Noa Hope and Nashton James.
His hobbies include collecting caps (350+), traveling, attending Warriors games and spending time with his family.