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Longtime attorney Jesse Branick, who spent decades as a legal representative for Port Arthur and Mid County cities, is being remembered for his respect of others and community involvement.

Branick died Monday after an illness.

Port Arthur City Attorney Valecia Tizeno was hired by the city just days after Branick was hired — in December 2003.

Tizeno said Branick treated everyone with respect and even though he retired from his position with the city last year, she and others still called him for advice even up to a month ago.

“We didn’t have to worry about anything with the municipal court. He handled everything very professionally,” Tizeno said.

She called him a very good lawyer and a very honorable man who was fair with all, from citizens to co-workers. The city never received a complaint on Branick, only compliments.

“He was somebody we all should pattern our self after, both professionally and personally,” she said

Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick, who is Jesse’s brother, said he received hundreds of messages over the past few days regarding the death of Jesse.

Approximately 60 percent of those messages were for condolences and to say Jesse helped them.

“It’s a pretty strong legacy to be remembered for having helped people,” Jeff Branick said.

Jesse Branick worked as city attorney and prosecutor for the City of Nederland, starting in 2009 and retired recently.

Nederland City Manager Chris Duque called Branick a great city attorney who always wanted to help other departments with their needs.

“He was a true friend to this community and dedicated public servant and a good friend,” Duque said. “He will be greatly missed.”

Branick served as prosecutor for Port Arthur, Nederland, Groves and Port Neches and also represented families in wills/probates, adoptions, real estate, personal injury and business law, according to the Branick and Devenzio website.

He has also served as magistrate judge for Jefferson County for mental hearings, served on Nederland Independent School District school board as president and other positions, held offices with Jefferson County Bar Association, including president, was involved with Mardi Gras of Southeast Texas, and a number of other associations.

Jesse Branick leaves behind his wife, JoLynn, and daughters Jena and Jeslyn.

Services are pending with Melancon Levingston Funeral Home in Nederland.