Thomas David Jefferies

A Time to Be Born - Jeremiah 1:5
Thomas David Jefferies was born June 17,1946 in Clarendon, Arkansas, to Joe Willis and Ollie Pearl (Franks) Jefferies.

A Time to Learn - Psalm 86:11
Thomas was a proud graduate of G.W. Carver High School; Class of 1964, where he laid the foundation for a life marked by discipline, curiosity, and purpose. He also earned certification in agriculture.

A Time to Serve – 1 Corinthians 9:19
He served in the United States Army as a Combat Medic in Vietnam. He received the National Defense Medal as a Sharpshooter. After completing three years of service, Thomas returned to Arkansas, where he began to feel the pull of something different, new surroundings, new opportunity, a new direction. That desire for change eventually led him to Kansas City, where he began the next chapter of his working life. In Kansas City, he spent time working at Ford, Lake City and took on several other positions as he continued building his path. It was there that he found lasting stability with Lipton Tea, where he devoted 30 years of loyal service and made history as the 1st black supervisor in tea processing. Thomas retired on July 1, 2001, ending, a long work journey defined by perseverance, consistency, and a strong work ethic.

A Time to Love – Psalm 128:34
On December 16, 1967, Thomas united in marriage with the love of his life – Elizabeth Gaston, and together they built a life rich in love, laughter, and family. Their union was blessed with three children Thomas Jr., Vernessa, and Shalonda — who brought him immense pride, end-less joy, and a legacy of love that will continue for generations.

A Time of Rebirth - Romans 10:8-13, John3:16-17
Thomas accepted Christ as a youth at Philadelphia Baptist Church in Clarendon, Arkansas, where his faith was first rooted. After moving to Kansas City, he joined Spruce St. Matthew Baptist Church under the leadership of W.T. Brown, he later joined Park Avenue Baptist Church on Easter Sunday 1978, under leadership of Pastor Carl Johnson, Pastor George Ervin and current Pastor Gregory Stevens where he faithfully served the Lord and his church for many years. He was a dedicated Trustee, Usher, lead the Sr. Saints, Senior choir, Mid-day prayer, active in BTU, and a founding member of the church van ministry. Alongside his wife, he co-led the kitchen and bereavement ministries, serving others with quiet devotion and compassion until her passing.

A Time to Live – Psalm 118:24
Thomas found peace where the water met the sky. Fishing was more than a pastime for him it was a place of stillness, reflection, and quiet connection with God’s creation. He cherished time spent in nature, finding joy in the calm beauty of the outdoors and in providing fresh catches for family meals shared around the table. Through these simple but meaningful moments, Thomas expressed his love for his family, his appreciation for God’s blessings, and his deep contentment with life’s quiet gifts.

A Time to Depart – Hebrews 9:27
Thomas Jefferies departed this life on Wednesday April 29, 2026, at Research Medical Center. His wife, Elizabeth Jefferies, his parents, Joe Willis Sr. and Ollie Pearl Jefferies; brothers: Joe Willis Jr., Ivory Lee and Curtis Jefferies; sister, Pearlie Mae Washington preceded him in death.

A Time of Remembrance - Luke 23:46
Thomas leaves to cherish his memory: his son, Minister Thomas Jefferies Jr. (Shawnta); daughters: Vernessa Rashaw (Bruce) and Shalonda Bolden (Brad); granddaughters: Brittneigh Montgomery (Aaron), Jasmine Jefferies, Maya Jefferies; great grandson, Nasir Montgomery; brother, Larry Jefferies (Olivia) of Wentzville MO; sisters: Patricia Nelson (Linson) of KCMO, Dorothy Bright and April Jefferies of Detroit MI; aunts, Earmalean Washington of Clarendon Arkansas and Mary Hill of Detroit MI; and host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.