SWARTZ CREEK -- The family of Lapeer resident Jesse Goode wants answers in his sudden death at the Genesee County Jail.
They say his only son should know how he died and he should be remembered for the good man that he was.
One-year-old Gage only knew his father Jesse Goode for a short time.
April 16th Goode suddenly died while serving time at the Genesee County Jail.
“I couldn't believe it. I was in a state of shock, denial, and disbelief,” said Kelley Collette, the mother of Goode’s son.
At first, sheriff authorities said Goode died of an overdose, but then said the cause is unknown until toxicology reports come back.
That’s when the Goode’s hired a private investigator.
“We feel that it may be a conflict of interest for the Genesee County Sheriff's Department to investigate themselves. We’re not making any accusations at this point,” said Collette.
Goode’s family says they just want to know the truth about his death, so that one day they can tell his only son.
“He loved that little guy with all of his heart. This is our miracle baby,” said Collette.
Doctors told Collett she couldn't have children, but three months later conceived little Gage.
“Miracles do happen and so Jesse got the family that he always wanted. We are just deeply, deeply sad that he couldn't stay around long enough to enjoy it,” said Collette.
Friday, Goode’s family got tattoos of Jesse’s artwork he created while incarcerated.
“I know that I have a piece of my brother on me to remember him by,” said Kelly Good, Goode’s sister.
Jesse’s father says the cross reminds him of his son's love for Christ.
“He knew everything was going to be all right. He said that he had the spirit in him and no matter what he was going to be a good, Godly father to his boy,” said Danny Goode, Goode’s father.
Goode’s family says they'll make sure little Gage knows what a loving and generous man his father was.
“We were best friends,” said Danny Goode.
“I love him more than all the fish in the sea,” said Collette.
The Genesee County Sheriff's Office says the results of Goode’s toxicology report won't be available for two to three weeks.
If you have Information surrounding Goode’s death, contact Private Investigator David Norris at 810-640-1411.
Contributions can be made to Gage’s college fund on the Justice for Jesse Facebook page.
Please tell us your memories of Jesse Goode.
