John Jefferson, Sr.

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John Willis Jefferson, Sr., SMSgt, 45, of Mascoutah, IL, born March 7, 1972, in Erie, PA, died Friday, March 2, 2018, at Memorial Hospital, Belleville, IL.

Mr. Jefferson retired as a Senior Master Sergeant after 26 years of service in the United States Air Force.  He was a boy scout leader and district committee chair. John lead the men’s bible study and youth bible study groups at Scott Air Force Base Chapel, and was also heavily involved with the Scott Air Force Base VFW Post 4183.

He was preceded in death by his father, Johnnie Lee Jones; and a brother, Marvin Jefferson.

Surviving are his wife, Mindy, nee Mooberry, Jefferson;
three sons, John W. Jefferson, Jr., Sean Jefferson, and Christian Jefferson;
his mother and step-father, Christine and Eric Eatman;
his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Mark and Teresa Mooberry;
a brother, Johnnie Lee Jones, Jr.;
four sisters, Andrea Jefferson, Jamie Jefferson, Sabrina Jones, and Jenny Lynn Mitchell;
many aunts and uncles;
nieces and nephews;
and cousins.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great
a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside
every weight and sin which clings so
closely, and let us run with endurance the
race that is set before us.”
– Hebrews 12:1

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Jefferson Barracks Food Pantry, 24 Davis Street, St. Louis, MO, 63125.  Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

Visitation:  Friends may visit from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 8, 2018, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.

Funeral: Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 8, 2018 at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with ­­Chaplain Capt. George Kahl officiating.

Burial with military honors will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, MO.

Condolences:

62 Comments on John Jefferson, Sr.

Azro Hunt said : Guest Report Jan 02, 2024 at 8:28 PM

‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29:11‬ ‭NIV‬ [11] For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

  • Fortgibson
  • Oklahoma
Wayne & Sheila Darrell said : Guest Report Mar 27, 2018 at 12:52 PM

Cindy, You all are in our prayers. It was a blessing to serve with the entire Jefferson family at VGS. If we can help in any way, please let us know. I know that God will continue to bless and keep you all. Hugs to you, John Jr, Sean, and Christian. Love Wayne and Sheila Darrell

  • Upper Marlboro
  • MD
Dan Stock said : Guest Report Mar 09, 2018 at 8:46 PM

Mindy and family, I am so sorry hear hear about John's passing. I feel for you that he was taken from you just when you were finally getting to have him to yourself. I have fond memories of our time at LAAFB together (him becoming a father, making the drive to/from Ft Mac in his beloved 5.0). John and I kept in touch over the years and I am glad I was able to meet up with him on a couple of his deployments. John was one of the funniest and most personable people I ever had the privilege to know. He was a beacon of light to those he met. John could put a smile on your face when you needed it most. John will be deeply missed. and fondly remembered.

  • San Diego
  • CA
Kevin & Ruth Cannon said : Guest Report Mar 09, 2018 at 2:59 AM

Our Condolences and prayers go out to you Mindy and the boys. Only God knows the answer to the why, but he left us the HOPE that we will see John again. Rest in the arms of the Comforter.

  • Fairview Heights
  • IL
Pfau family said : Guest Report Mar 09, 2018 at 1:55 AM

There are no words to express the blessing we had at knowing him, our sorrow at losing him, and the joy we have in knowing we will see him again. My heart goes to the family at this sudden and tragic loss. I will pray for you as the hustle of this week passes.

  • Eielson
  • AK
David said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 7:41 PM

It has been great to serve alongside you in Scouts, you are an excellent leader and know how to get people to smile and laugh. You will be missed. Prayers for your family and may you rest in peace.

  • Scott AFB
  • IL
Dennis said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 3:11 PM

Dennis and Carmen Hass The shock and sadness of John's untimely passing is heartbreaking. To Mindy and the boys you have are sympathy and will be in our prayers. John's impact with the military not only at Los Angeles AFB, but across the Air Force will be truly missed but not forgotten. His smile could light a city and he had such an infectious personality that everyone would gravitate toward him. RIP John. Mindy if there is anything we can do to help with the pain and sorrow please do not hesitate. Dennis & Carmen

  • Carson
  • CA
Larry Conger said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 2:43 PM

My deepest condolences to the entire family. John was Outstanding Airman, Leader and Contracting Professional. I'm very proud to have served with him. More importantly, John was great man. He always had a positive attitude and warm smile. Everybody who has me John is better off for the experience. John has left a legacy that will carry forward many generations. He will be miss. Larry

  • Washington
  • DC
Shane Sullivan said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 2:32 PM

Please know that my heart goes out to you Mindy, family, and friends of John around the world. I was fortunate to meet John years ago in Alaska. I never did or will forget my friend "Jefferson"...

  • Shady Spring
  • WV
The Beckwith/Hornal Family said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 12:30 PM

Our deepest condolences to the Jefferson Family. My husband and son had the pleasure of Johns company as our son visited Troop 6 at Johns last troop meeting and my husband came home raving about John's passion for scouting and how he had inspired him to want to volunteer with our son. Thank you for sharing your love of scouting with us. Our family has you in our prayers.

  • Scott AFB
  • Illinois
Ronnie and Dave Mendelsohn said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 5:51 AM

Mindy, John, Sean, and Christian--Our heartfelt sympathies, condolences, and prayers are with you for this difficult journey you are taking. John left his footprints all over 28 CONS and each and every person who John came into contact with is better for knowing this gracious big hearted man. His professionalism and military bearing were complimented with his genuine caring and concern by doing the right thing for each person regardless of their situation or circumstance. Tomorrow when you lay John to his final resting place know a piece of South Dakota is there with you Big Time! John may be gone but in no way is he ever forgotten. Sal-lute!! Deepest Sympathy Ronnie and Dave

  • Rapid City
  • South Dakota
Kevin Kupniewski said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 2:35 AM

John look over us here on earth. We had awesome times when we were young. You will be missed.

  • Erie
  • Pa
Kevin Cooley said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 2:02 AM

Condolences to the family and RIP John

  • Erie
  • Pa
Brian Chismar said : Guest Report Mar 08, 2018 at 1:51 AM

My thoughts and prayers go out to Johns entire family. It seems like just yesterday that we were young men hanging out on Lighthouse street in erie pa. I will always regret not keeping in closer touch with a great friend in my youth. His accomplishments in life are a reflection of the great person he has always been. I will forever keep you in my heart brother. God Bless you and your entire family. You will be forever missed in erie pa.

  • Erie
  • Pennsylvania
Alfonza said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 11:27 PM

Heartfelt condolences to those left behind and rest in paradise to our fellow brother-in-arms who has transcended this earthly realm.

  • St. Louis
  • MO
Arlene Hall said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 5:58 PM

Words cannot express the sorrow that we are all feeling right now. John was such a high achiever & motivator (not just in his military career, but life in general). He loved his family so much---Mindy & his sons and often talked about the next adventure that he wanted to experience with you. Take comfort in knowing that he will be your ever-present guardian angel, ready to protect you at a moment's notice....again, my condolences are with the family.

  • Lebanon
  • IL
Audrey Campbell said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 5:39 PM

Mindy and sons my prayers are with you and the family. John was a great airman. RIP John!

  • El Segundo
  • CA
Patricia Barnett said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 5:20 PM

I had the honor of working with John during my time as an Honorary Commander for SAFB. He was such a blessing to me! His heart truly was focused on God, his family and then his career! Truly a great man has left this earth ... but now he is in heaven dancing with the Lord. Praying for his family during this time of adjustment and their new journey. Know that you have an amazing angel looking out over you! John, thank you for being such a good man and touching the lives of everyone you met! You will be missed my friend. RIP...till we meet again, Patty B.

  • Saint Louis
  • MO
Cheryl A. Gray said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 1:45 PM

To Mindy and the family, John was a nice person and role model for those around him and he will be missed that he left way too soon. May God bless you!

  • Belleville
  • Illinois
Christopher Garrett said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 4:02 AM

It is with heart felt sadness I feel about the loss of SMSgt (Ret) John Jefferson it was always a pleasure to talk with him during the Group staff meetings. He was full of life, and a great individual to be around and always willing to help others. There are not many people like him and he will be truly missed by everyone who knew and loved him. No words can express the sadness and pain his loss means to his family, friends and the Air Force family. My deepest condolences to his wife, sons, family and friends.

  • Scott AFB
  • IL
JD and Maria Davis said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 3:52 AM

Mindy and the boys, Maria and I had a wonderful conversation with John a couple of weeks ago in the commissary. We met you guys in 2004 and our children had fun singing in the gospel choir. We were glad to see you guys when you all came back to Scott AFB for a final assignment. We know John is resting in peace and keeping his eyes on you and the boys. God Bless.

  • Scott AFB
  • Illinois
Kelly Malone said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2018 at 3:37 AM

So sorry to hear the news of John's passing. Thoughts and prayers to his family.

  • Erie
  • PA
Timothy (Terabyte) Hobson said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 11:34 PM

I am truly glad to have known SMSgt Jefferson for a brief moment. He truly had a sense of duty to God, family and his uniform. I will miss our conversations about old shows and life. You will truly be missed but never forgotten.

  • Fairview Heights
  • IL
Paul said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 8:25 PM

He was a great leader and a great person. Even though I have only spoken with him a few times. He was always full of life and greeted everyone like family. I regret only the others that would have met Mr. Jefferson if God extended his time on this earth and what a great man he was. My condolences and prayers to the family. He will not be forgotten and stay strong. God bless him for everything that he has done.

  • Scott AFB
  • IL
Tom Partelow said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 7:54 PM

My sincere condolences. I did not know SMS Jefferson; but as a 33-year civil servant I mourn the very early loss of a career military member, a servant, husband, father, brother, son, and extended family member. May the Peace that passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen.

  • Fairview Heights
  • IL
Miss Ruth Ann Scanzillo said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 7:52 PM

Dear Mindy, John Jr, Sean, and Christian, There is still a cloud following me wherever I go, even days later. I know the sun is there, always, but I feel the rain in that sad cloud. The essence of John is indescribable, really - beyond mere words. His presence in any room, from day one at East High all the way through til last October when I last saw him.....most of us had lost hope that the planet would be graced by such a man of both faith, grace, vigor, commitment, enthusiasm, and deep love. I won't hog this condolence template with more words, right now; what I will say is that my heart will be with each of you all day Thursday, and then on Friday and Saturday, and for the rest of time -- always a place in this heart for the boy who made me so proud as a woman when he grew to be the man we will all love, forever. Big John hugs, to each of you, from "Miss Scanzillo". Yep; I'm crying, again. <3 !

  • Erie
  • PA
Juliet Jones said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 5:53 PM

I am so terribly sorry for your loss. This tears my heart to shreds. I have known John for such a long time. I tell stories about him/us to my kids. He was a wonderful person. My prayers are with you Mindy, John, Sean, and Christian and all his other family. I know I will see him again but the waiting is hard.

  • Erie
  • PA
Diane Kubler said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 4:11 PM

I am so sorry this has happened. There are no words. I worked with John at the 375th before you went overseas. John was always there with smiles, laughter, and encouragement. You have a beautiful wonderful family, Mindy. The white bunny named Wendy lived for several years after you left. I'm the one that adopted her and she was a sweetheart too. Please let your sons know she was taken care off. Diane

  • Troy
  • IL
Ric Giles said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 1:04 PM

John is a great friend of mine. I will never forget him. He and I went to High School together and he could brighten any room he walked into with his awesome personality. The hair styles, his taste in flashy clothes and shoes, and his jokes is what I remember of him and will be sadly missed. He was a grade and a year ahead of me and he was one of very few that I looked up to and looked forward to laughing with on a daily basis. It's been years since I seen him, but our High School years seem like yesterday. I can remember when I started lifting weights, John gave me my nickname that he always called me when he saw me. He said, "Ric, your name to me now is Built Giles, not Ric Giles." We laughed so hard. I will miss you, but never forget you. God Bless you, John!! I love you, man!! God Speed. Sadly, Ric Giles

  • Erie
  • PA
John Traylor said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 12:48 PM

John Jefferson had a personality that would light up any area. Very outgoing and encouraging. His presents will be missed. My deepest condolences to the family.

  • St. Louis
  • MO
David & Shirley Coleman said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 4:36 AM

To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord, to the family, we are praying for your strength and comfort during your loss. John made a difference in everyone's life that He touched. A true light for Christ, a Bible scholar, a servant of the Lord, caring, compassionate friend and a leader. We celebrate John's legacy and thank God for giving us John! We will miss John!!!

  • Scott AFB
  • FL
Kathi Turner said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 3:52 AM

My heart goes out to Mindy and the boys during this time of loss. My deepest sympathies to you all and you families.

  • Las Vegas
  • NV
Kevin Ott, CMSgt(ret) said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 1:58 AM

John was a great man, husband, father, Airman, and community leader. He did so much to improve everyone's lives where ever he was. His smile was contagious. Rest in Peace my friend, Kevin

  • Rapid City
  • SD
Molly said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 1:52 AM

Fly high, brother. We will miss you here on earth. Mindy, much love to you and the boys. ❤️❤️

  • Smithton
  • IL
Rose Connolly said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 1:29 AM

Rest In Peace ~ Fair winds and following seas. Your service and sacrifice will always be remembered. ~ ✞ ~ Requiescat in pace
Rose

  • Chatham
  • IL
Larry/Geraldine Callen said : Guest Report Mar 06, 2018 at 12:41 AM

Mindy, We’re are so sorry for your loss. John was always willing to lend a helping hand and he will be dearly missed. You and the boys are in our thoughts and prayers.

  • Belleville
  • Il
Gregory Cole said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 11:55 PM

Will miss you very much. To be absent from the body is to be in the presence of the Lord. May God welcome you into your mansion that He’s prepared for you. Love you ?

  • Lebanon
  • Il
Reyna Camille said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 10:53 PM

Mindy, John, Sean, and Christian, I am so very sorry for your loss. (Ret) SMSgt Jefferson is an amazing man and has greatly impacted every single person that he met. I am thankful I had the opportunity to work with him, listen to his funny jokes, and have his guidance. He always spoke of your family with such love and gratefulness. Sending many prayers your way. God Bless.

  • EAFB
  • SD
Edward Williams said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 9:15 PM

I met John a few years ago at a DAU class. He was a great man with a kind heart, willing to help anyone and share his knowledge. I count myself blessed to have known him and will be praying for the family doing this difficult time. Rest well brother!

  • Niceville
  • FL
Kathy said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 6:37 PM

My heart goes out to your family. (Ret) SMSgt Jefferson was an amazing person full of joy and love. He will be missed greatly by so many well beyond comprehension! Although we may never know what God's plan is for us, He knows and blesses us with the understanding that if we have faith in Him, He will bring us home to live an eternal life. You all are in my prayers

  • Mascoutah
  • IL
Linda G. Robertson said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 6:05 PM

Mindy, John Jr, Sean, Christian, and Family Words cannot express the brokenness of my heart, as we know John will forever live forever in our hearts. Just trust God with all your thoughts and feelings, even the negative ones. Accept his peace, comfort, and be an instrument of his will. Continue prayers for you and your family. Linda G. Robertson

  • Belleville
  • IL
James said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 5:01 PM

Great guy. I pray for the family. I am sorry for your loss. I hope that you get all the supportive things you need right now.

  • Scott AFB
  • Il
Sharon and Rodger Sherrer said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 4:07 PM

We're very sorry for your loss. A good family man is a blessing from God. We'll be in constant prayer for you, your wonderful boys, and other family members.

  • Belleville
  • IL
Todd Joyner said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 3:53 PM

Mindy & family - I am so sorry & shocked to hear of John's unexpected passing. I worked with and got to know John 10 years ago. I knew him as a superb NCO, and more importantly, top tier man, who treated everyone with dignity, kindness & respect...a standup leader among his peers. My prayer is that God will provide each of you comfort as you go through the grieving process, and that you will then focus on what a great man John was - knowing that he had huge professional & personal impacts on so many people along the way. May God bless you now & until you see John again. Todd Joyner

  • San Antonio
  • TX
Iris Miranda-Kirschner, LtCol, USAF, Retired said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 3:53 PM

John was larger than life. Death will not diminish him . My prayers are with all of you. Love - Iris

  • Chatham
  • IL
Todd Joyner said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 3:44 PM

Mindy & family - I am so sorry & shocked to hear of John's unexpected passing. I worked with and got to know John 10 years ago. I knew him as a superb NCO, and more importantly, top tier man, who treated everyone with dignity, kindness & respect...a standup leader among his peers. My prayer is that God will provide each of you comfort as you go through the grieving process, and that you will then focus on what a great man John was - knowing that he had huge professional & personal impacts on so many people along the way. May God bless you now & until you see John again. Todd Joyner

  • San Antonio
  • TX
RL Daniels said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 3:10 PM

may u RIP.. gone way to soon. I remember taking Kung Fu classes together n always making us laugh.. my condolences to the family..

  • Erie
  • Pa
Torrey Benning Sr. said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 2:26 PM

My brother my friend words can't explain how it hurts to see your gone from here we met in 1989 at the boys and girls club and been friends ever since glad that I had to chat with you may you rest in heaven my friend

  • Erie
  • Pa
Stephen Holdenried said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 2:25 PM

I was floored when I found out that John died. While I wasn't close, he treated me, and everyone around him, as if they were lifelong friends. He will be missed. My condolences to his family and friends that lost a good man.

  • Scott AFB
  • IL
Cindy Showers said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 2:09 PM

My heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family of John Jefferson. We kept in touch all these years, and most recently just prior to his retirement. Always available with a smile and an encouraging word, John was a pleasure to be around and to work with. Thoughts and prayers to Mindy and the fine young men he raised. God Bless....Cindy

  • Belleville
  • IL
Penny Boggis said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 1:31 PM

Mindy, words seem completely inadequate--am so very sorry. John was a really good man who will be greatly missed by many. God Bless you and the boys.

  • O'Fallon
  • IL
William Moses said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 5:47 AM

My deepest condolences to Mindy and his young men at this time of deep sorrow. I'm truly shocked and sad as Jefferson will be dearly missed. Heartfelt prayers goes to Mindy and the family as well.

  • Springfield
  • Virginia
David and Karen Suh said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 4:15 AM

We are shocked and deeply saddened by John's sudden return home. He will always be remembered as a Godly man who served God with a happy and grateful heart. He was a dedicated and loving husband and father who was loved by many. Our deepest condolences to Mindy and the boys We are praying for your family.

  • Niceville
  • FL
Seth Klint said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 4:14 AM

I've had a hard time not thinking about John over the last few days. I didn't realize how much he meant to me. He took me under his wing at Ellsworth and taught me a great deal about how to be a n effective leader. John was the only leadership to see me off on my first deployment. And him and Mindy we're there for my wife while I was gone. No matter what kind of day you were having, John could make you smile. The world will surely notice John's absence but he will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with the family during this hard time. "Into the wild blue yonder" brother. RIP

  • Dayton
  • Ohio
Alana Jefferson said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 1:56 AM

I didn't really get to k is you. But it felt like I knew you for a life time. You loved me from the start. So here I am saying my goodbye and my I love you for the last time. I will really miss you a lot. You made me happy for the first time in awhile. So you were here to give me something no one else could give me. So thank you.

  • Richmond
  • MO
Dawna said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 1:05 AM

Mindy. My heart breaks for you and the boys. Everything I have read about him makes me feel sad I never met him. But he lives forever in your heart and in your boys. My prayers and love are with you. Vaya con Dios John.

  • New Baden
  • IL
William dykes said : Guest Report Mar 05, 2018 at 12:00 AM

My heart is hurting so bad when I head the news I want to send my deep condolences to the family

  • Florence
  • South Carolina
Aman Johal said : Guest Report Mar 04, 2018 at 11:47 PM

You were an amazing individual. Truly the epitome of a great leader and mentor. I will always cherish the laughs and talks we had. Your guidance has helped me shape the way I live my life today and you will be sorely missed. I don't think any other leader has been as gracious as you. Hope you're doing well in Heaven, Ol Sarge.

  • San Antonio
  • Texas
Scott and Linny gardner said : Guest Report Mar 04, 2018 at 11:29 PM

Linny and I send our deepest condolences as John went home to Jesus. Our prayers are with Mindy and the boys (young men) as the family grieves and prays and gives thanks for this great man. We pray 1 Thess 4:13 with you. Scott and Linny

  • Charleston
  • SC
Lisa Humerick said : Guest Report Mar 04, 2018 at 9:10 PM

Sending our heartfelt prayers to Mindy and the boys, as well as the rest of John's family surfing this time of deep sorrow. May God wrap His loving arms around you all and comfort you. John will be missed for all the joy he brought to everyone 's life. He will be greatly missed. Love and hugs to you all, Doug & Lisa Humerick

  • Bristol
  • CT
Daniel Draszkiewicz said : Guest Report Mar 04, 2018 at 8:44 PM

My deepest condolences to the entire family. John Jefferson will always be in my heart and thoughts and my love and compassion to his family.

  • Erie
  • Pennsylvania
Shannon and Jamaal Stewart said : Guest Report Mar 04, 2018 at 8:43 PM

Still can not wrap my head around this. I am so heartbroken. My love and prayers go out to Mindy, John Jr, Sean, Christian and his brothers sisters mother and stepdad. Fly with the angels John! Your time on Earth is done. Continue to serve the Lord and watch over us all... we will all meet again one day my friend! Until then... GOD BLESS YOU , I'll miss you my friend!!!!??

  • Erie
  • PA

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