Claude (Jeff) Watkins Jefferson, Jr., 71, died Thursday, October 1, 2015 at the St. Agnes Hospital of Baltimore, MD following a sudden illness. He was preceded in death by his beautiful and loving wife of 37 years, Linda Varner Jefferson (married August 26, 1975); his son, Anthony Jefferson (wife- Donna); and his grandsons Jason and Justin Owens. He is forever loved and remembered by his sons Brian Jefferson (wife – Jessica), Scott Jefferson (wife – Brandy), Steven Jefferson (wife – Carla), Claude (Jeff) B. Jefferson (wife – Margie), Kevin Jefferson (wife – Terri), and Michael Jefferson ; his daughters, Teresa Tyrell and Angela Jefferson; his sister, Claudette Jefferson; his nephew, Sean Jefferson (wife – Megan); his other siblings Michael, Claudell, Baby, Candy, and Man; his former wives, Patricia Holsey and Erma Jefferson; several additional nieces and nephews; as well as a combination of well over 20 grandchildren and great grandchildren who have brought Claude so much joy - with four (4) more currently on the way.
Claude (graduate of Antioch University) was a veteran of the Vietnam War wherein he served his tour of duty in 1969. While proudly serving our country he earned several medals, to include the distinguished Purple Heart. After retiring from the Army as a Sergeant First class in 1984, he held long time careers with the Office of Personnel Management, and as an educator within both the Baltimore and Washington D.C. Public School Systems.
Claude, born in Washington D.C. on March 4, 1944, grew up with his sister, Claudette Jefferson, with whom he has remained extremely close throughout his entire life. He then became a father, an uncle, a grandfather, even a great-grandfather to a large family that loved him for the way he loved unconditionally. He had a genuine laugh that often times originated right from the center of his belly. He sought opportunities to make people smile through conversation and humor; people always appreciated that about him. More than anything, though, he enjoyed loving and being loved.
Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of Claude’s life on Thursday, October 8, 2015 at the Witzke Funeral Homes, 5555 Twin Knolls Rd, Columbia, MD 21045. A memorial gathering is to be held that day at 10:00 AM, and is to be followed by a memorial service, held from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
In lieu of flower arrangements, Claude requests that donations be made to:
ALS Association
Gift Processing Center
PO Box 6051
Albert Lea, MN 56007
1-888-949-2577
www.alsa.org (download donation form)
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