James E. Jefferson

James E. Jefferson, 90, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away at the Veteran's Hospital on March 28, 2024. He was born on October 30, 1933, in Elysian Fields, Texas.  James lived in Texas except for his time in the service until he moved to Kansas City in 1964.  James worked very hard at a number of jobs in his early working life beginning with helping his father with farm work at the age of 8.  James led a remarkable life filled with compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his family and community.

In 1964, James selflessly came to the aid of his sister Ethel in Kansas City, assisting her with her children while her husband was away in service. This act of kindness exemplified his caring and generous nature.  During this time, he also worked as a substitute teacher, then Ford Motor and later American Can Company.  
 
James' journey was marked by significant milestones and achievements. In 1954 he joined the Army, serving in Japan and Korea for two years. His military service not only showcased his bravery but also enabled him to pursue education under the GI Bill. James attended Bishop College in Marshall, Texas and graduated with a Bachelor's degree after the school moved to Dallas.  His final move in his career life was to serve as the Director for the Cedar House in Olathe, Kansas.  Where he began his career in 1975.  Cedar House is a half-way house where James served as an assistant before eventually becoming the Director of the house. His hard work and passion for helping others shone through during his time there until his well-deserved retirement in 1995.
 
One of James' proudest accomplishments was his enduring marriage to Mary Robertson.  They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary recently. Their love story began in mid-September 1972 and on March 9, 1974 they were married at Second Presbyterian Church in Brookside where they attended for 18 years. Their bond strengthened over the years as they raised their children together and remained dedicated members of various churches including Wornall Road Baptist Church in 1993 and City Church in 2003 and then Wornall Road Baptist Church in 2011 to the present.
 
James will be deeply missed by his surviving family which includes his devoted wife Mary Margaret Jefferson; loving children Laura Clark Brashear, Harold Samuel "Bud" Clark III, James R. Jefferson, Jerry Gatson, Joseph E. Jefferson, Vanessa Jefferson; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and Mrs. Annie Jackson (sister).
 
He is preceded in death by his father Vinkler Jefferson; mother Willie Mae Sneed-Brown; sisters Fannie Lee Jefferson, Willie V. Hill, Minnie V. Taylor, Ethel L. Ballom, Dorothy I. Sherrod; twin brother Eddie B. Jefferson; brother George C.D. Jefferson.
 
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 2nd from 6 to 8 p.m. at Muehlebach Funeral Care followed by a Funeral Service on Wednesday, April 3rd at 11:30 a.m. at Wornall Road Baptist Church and Graveside Service at Calvary Cemetery.

The family has suggested donations in James’ memory to: Wornall Road Baptist Church or Gideons International.
 
James' legacy of love, service, and selflessness will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in peace knowing he touched numerous lives with kindness and compassion beyond measure.