Jessie Rangel’s story is one of love, resilience, and unwavering support. Born in Cd. Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, she moved to El Paso, Texas, in 1954, carrying with her the dreams of a brighter future. In 1963, fate led her to Rene Rangel—a man as charismatic as he was kind. Their love was undeniable, and in 1968, they eloped, setting off to California with little more than their dreams and determination. Together, they built a life filled with hard work, love, and deep devotion to their family, eventually welcoming their son, Rene Rangel Jr.It was Rene who introduced Jessie to the world of boxing, and though the sport wasn’t initially her own passion, she embraced it wholeheartedly because it was his. When they opened Grampa’s Boxing Gym, Jessie naturally became the heart of the space. She wasn’t just the wife of a boxing coach—she was the soul of the gym, the steady presence that made every fighter, visitor, and young dreamer feel like family.Known for her warmth and kindness, Jessie quickly became Gramma Jessie to everyone who walked through the doors. She had one rule: “Gramma gets a hug.” And with that simple gesture, she transformed the gym into more than just a training facility—it became a home. A place where fighters weren’t just athletes, but part of something bigger.Now, as a proud great-grandmother, Jessie spends most of her time enjoying the life she and Rene worked so hard to build. Though she may not be at the gym every day, her spirit lingers in its walls, in the fighters she once embraced, and in the legacy she helped create. And when she does visit, she still brings the same love, warmth, and unwavering support that have always defined her. Because once you’ve been hugged by Gramma Jessie, you never forget the feeling of being truly welcomed, truly seen, and truly loved.
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