Obituary of James Jefferson

James Edward “JJ” Jefferson, age 66, of Moberly, MO passed away unexpectedly January, 16, 2021 at Moberly Nursing and Rehab.  JJ was born on May 6, 1954 in Los Angeles, CA to Ralph Jefferson and Henrietta Reich Jefferson.

He graduated high school in California in 1974.  On January 10, 1975 he married Betty Bowen in Reno, NV.   The two just celebrated 46 wonderful years together. In 1976 JJ and Betty relocated to La Plata, MO.  In 1994 he accepted a position as a mechanic at Lovegreen Ford, where he worked as a Chrysler Master Tech for over 21 years before his retirement.

JJ was a member of Sugar Creek Baptist Church.  He had a big heart and always put others first.  He was more than willing to give someone the shirt off his back if it would help in any way.  JJ enjoyed hunting, fishing, racing and spending time with his family.  He was a great cook and also had a wicked sense of humor.  Most importantly, JJ was devoted father and an amazing husband.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

JJ is preceded in death by his parents, Henrietta and Ralph Jefferson; a sister, Juanita Jefferson and his daughter, Billie Jefferson.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Betty of Moberly, MO; his children, Jenny (Jason) Garner of Moberly, MO, Steven (Sunshine) Jefferson of Warrensburg, MO and Jamie Jefferson of Oklahoma City, OK; grandchildren, Dakota Jefferson, Timothy Garner, Steven Garner, April Garner, Zane Garner, Billie Jefferson, Johnnie Jefferson, Dillon Smith, Josephine Jefferson, Jennifer Hemme and Robert Summers; one great granddaughter, Tierra Stansberry; sister, Etta (George) Fowler of Green Castle, MO; nephews, Jeff Fowler and George (Suzi) Fowler all of Green Castle, MO, Houston Line and Brandon Line both of Los Angeles, CA; nieces, Patty Roebuck and Rosie (Walter) Mayor all of Green Castle, MO, Taylor Line of Los Angeles, CA; extended family and many good friends.

Family will host a private celebration of JJ’s life at a later date.

Condolences may be shared online at pathwaymemorial.com.