Jesse Michael Olanday, 48, of Philadelphia and formerly of Providence, RI, passed away on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia.

            Jesse was born in Steubenville, Ohio, and grew up in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, the son of Pedro and Gloria (Asuncion) Olanday of Moon Township. He was a 1996 graduate of Moon Area High School and went on to attend the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Film/Animation/Video in 2000.

            Jesse spent more than 23 years working in the film, art, and design industries, pursuing the things that had always inspired him. He had a creative mind and a genuine love for making things. Art and media were a big part of his life, and he was especially gifted at drawing. Whether working on a project, creating something with his hands, or simply watching a movie, Jesse found ways to express his creativity and curiosity.

            His interests went well beyond his professional work. Jesse enjoyed carpentry and took pride in building and fixing things himself. He was an avid movie fan and could always appreciate a good story, a great performance, or the artistry behind a film. He had a particular soft spot for animals and, over the years, opened his home and heart to a number of rescued dogs and cats. Those animals were fortunate to have found him.

            Jesse was also a devoted Philadelphia Union fan. He loved following the team and sharing that passion with his nephews, Matt and Nate, and his friends. Sports, movies, art, and the many other things he enjoyed gave Jesse a way to connect with the people around him and create memories that will be cherished.

            Jesse was Catholic in faith and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

            In addition to his parents, Jesse is survived by his brother, Peter Olanday, and his wife, Kristin, of Doylestown, PA; his nephews, Matthew “Matt” and Nathan “Nate”; his niece, Jenna; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who were fortunate to know him.

            Jesse will be remembered for his creativity, his love of art and film, his compassion for animals, and the unique perspective he brought to the world around him. Most of all, he will be remembered as a beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend.

            Services will be announced at a later date.

            In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Philadelphia SPCA, 350 East Erie Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19134 or www.pspca.org/donate or Philabundance, 3616 South Galloway Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148 or www.philabundance.org, two causes that Jesse supported.

            Arrangements are by Suess-Gahman Funeral Home & Crematory, 606 Arch Street, Perkasie, PA.