Maudie Lee Jefferson

Maudie Lee Jefferson was born on November 4, 1934, to Luciel Howard Shepard and Artis Shepard. On May 8, 2026, she peacefully departed this life, completing a remarkable journey defined by unwavering faith, devoted service, and a deep love for God and His people.

Maudie graduated from Prairie View A&M University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. During her time there, she was a proud member of the Prairie View A&M University Choir. After graduation, she began a fulfilling career with the Dallas Independent School District, where she dedicated herself to teaching first through third grade and shaping the lives of countless young students.

Her personal life was rich with love and family. On April 12, 1960, she welcomed her son, Michael Jefferson. She later married Gus Jefferson Jr. on May 4, 1964, and on October 31, 1967, their daughter Mitzie Marvette Jefferson was born. Their marriage endured 15 years, and together they built a foundation of family, faith, and resilience.

On March 15, 1977, Maudie was inducted into the Order of the Eastern Star, where she remained a faithful and active member for nearly five decades. She also remained steadfast in her spiritual walk as a devoted member of Kirkwood CME Temple in Dallas, Texas.

Maudie lived life with joy, humor, and a competitive spirit. She loved the outdoors, especially fishing, never turning down an invitation to visit a lake or pond. She also enjoyed basketball, often challenging her son and others to spirited one-on-one games. When she made a shot, she would proudly proclaim that “the net was so hot she had to call the fire department to put it out.” Her love for games extended to Bid Whist, where she earned the title “Queen of the Game,” and to dominoes, where she dominated every table she touched, leaving opponents stunned and entertained by her lively commentary.

A devoted wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, friend, and servant of God, Maudie lived a life that reflected grace, endurance, and the fruit of the Spirit.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: James Shepard, Lonnie Shepard, Harvis Shepard, Vernon “John” Shepard, and Valerie Katherine Edmond.

Maudie leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and spiritual fruit. Cherishing her memory are her children: Michael Jefferson (Teresa) and Mitzie Marvette Jefferson. She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren: Michael Jefferson II (Alicia), Tarik Lee Jefferson (Ebony), Malik Terrell Jefferson (Madison), Sydney Simone Jefferson; and her great-grandchildren: Ayanna Faith Nickelson, Elisha Ann Jefferson, Sarah Gloria Jefferson, Hannah Joy Jefferson, Talion Dwight Jefferson, and Serenity Nicole Jefferson.

She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends whose lives were enriched by her presence. Her life was a testimony, her service unwavering, and her legacy eternal.