James Jefferson

James Derward Jefferson, 86, of Colonial Heights, passed away on Tuesday, November 6, 2012 at Southside Regional Medical Center. Born in Petersburg, he was the son of the late George W. and Lillian Ellington Jefferson, and was preceded in death by a grandchild. Mr. Jefferson was an active member of Swift Creek Baptist Church where he was a Deacon, Lay Minister and taught the Fellowship Sunday school class for 21 years, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, and retired from Prudential Insurance Company. Jim enjoyed the days of the minstrel shows in which he was master of ceremonies and sang in the men's chorus. He was a man who always spoke his mind and lived by principles that he believed to be right, offering a firm handshake and smiles to strangers and friends alike. Jim also enjoyed fishing, baseball, and was an avid gardener. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Dorothy G. Jefferson; daughters, Janet J. Rose and husband, Reginald of Birmingham, Alabama and Diane J. Seifart and husband, Curt of Charlotte, North Carolina; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a sister, June J. Bland (husband Jimmy, deceased) of Richmond; and a number of nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 9, 2012 in Swift Creek Baptist Church, 18510 Branders Bridge Road, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834 with the Reverend Dr. Steve Felker officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Park, Chester. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Swift Creek Baptist Church, Building Fund.