Ms. Ella Mae Jefferson was called home by her heavenly father on Saturday, November 6, 2021. She was the third eldest child of 12. Ella Mae was born in Santee, South Carolina on April 15, 1940 to the late Silas Jefferson and the late Lannie (Fairnot) Jefferson. She was a blessed 81 years old.
Ella was educated in the South Carolina School system attending elementary school at First Providence Missionary Baptist Church School and graduating from Roberts High School in Santee. Upon graduation she moved to New York. Later living in Florida for three years and working as a homemaker; she eventually made a home in Norwalk, Connecticut with her two children. In Norwalk, she was a diligent worker for the Norwalk Public School System for over thirty-three years where she enjoyed working with and educating parents. She was also a Certified Nursing Assistant for many years. Referred by many as having a heart of gold, Ella often extended her time and resources to volunteer for those in need, especially children. In 1999 she was honored for her work at the Celebrate Women Awards. Ella further demonstrated her devotion to children by her role as a foster parent. Before her move to North Carolina, Ella was an active member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church where she served as President and member of the Missionary Board and President and member of the Gospel Chorus. She also shared her love for cooking with her church family as she was often found in the kitchen of the church. She loved to cook for her family and friends, a tradition she lovingly passed on to her daughter.
Miss J., as she was affectionately known by those who loved and adored her, absolutely loved her kids. She often worked multiple jobs around the clock to ensure they were cared for and completed their college education. She did not play when it came to Ellen and Kelvin – she loved them dearly. Her smile and warmth were felt by all who met her. She had a kind and caring spirit and would do anything she could to help you.
Ella was cherished by her daughter Ellen Jefferson Kearney (Mitch) of Raleigh, North Carolina, and her son Kelvin Jefferson of Erie, Pennsylvania. Mitch shared special moments with Miss J. as he lovingly assisted in her care later in life. The gems of her life were her grandchildren, Earl Dwayne (DJ) Curry, Jr., Jaedan Mekhi Jefferson, Sydnee Ellen Jefferson Kearney and Tyler Vaughn Jefferson.
She was predeceased by two sisters, Leather Mae Prophet and Sarah Brown; one brother, Franklin Jefferson; five half- brothers from a previous marriage of Silas Jefferson, McKinley, Veloid, Everette, Vernard and Wilson.
She is survived by her siblings Leofice Williams (John), Hampton Jefferson (Ella), Willie Jefferson, Hazel Jefferson, Lincaway Jefferson (Willa), Patricia Brown (Theodore), Carolyn Mack and Elisher Wilson and a multitude of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, relatives, friends and church family.
The family would like to give a very special acknowledgment to Mrs. Vergie Diane Brown and her family. She was not just Ella’s special caregiver; she was family. We love you Mrs. Brown for all you did for Mom and she loved you too.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 12, 2021 at 1:00PM at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, 3331 NC Hwy 39, Louisburg, NC. Visitation will be held at the church from 12:30-1:00 PM prior to services. A viewing will be held at William Toney's Funeral Home in Zebulon on Thursday from 5-7 PM. Interment will conclude on Sunday, November 14, 2021 at The New Providence Missionary Baptist Church in Santee, SC.
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