IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION honoring the Life and Legacy of Jess "Chuck" Barbosa.
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Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 22083, October 20, 2025
INTRODUCED BY Manuel Abarca IV, DaRon McGee, Donna Peyton, Venessa Huskey
and Sean E. Smith County Legislators
Body
WHEREAS, the Jackson County Legislature joins in mourning the passing of Jess "Chuck" Barbosa, who departed this life on October 15, 2025, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of service, excellence, and community leadership; and,
WHEREAS, born on March 26, 1933, Jess grew up on the west side of Kansas City alongside his five brothers and two sisters, where he developed the strong sense of family, discipline, and compassion that would guide his life; and,
WHEREAS, at the age of 18, Jess enlisted in the United States Navy and served aboard the USS Rochester during the Korean War. From 1951 to 1953, he completed two Pacific tours. In his first tour he served as a sight setter providing critical naval gunfire support, and in his second tour he served as a ship's cook, where he discovered the passion that would define his lifelong career; and,
WHEREAS, upon returning home, Jess brought the same discipline and commitment to the kitchen, becoming a cornerstone of Kansas City's culinary community. As a founding member of the Greater Kansas City Chefs Association, he served as a mentor, leader, and advocate for professional growth within the culinary arts; and,
WHEREAS, Jess's outstanding achievements earned him the American Academy of Chefs Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his decades of dedication and his unwavering commitment to excellence in his craft; and,
WHEREAS, his legacy lives on through the Jess Barbosa Memorial Scholarship, supporting aspiring culinary students and ensuring that his belief in mentorship and education continues to inspire future generations; and,
WHEREAS, beyond his professional accomplishments, Jess was known for his quiet strength...
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