Arthur “Art” Lee Jefferson was born on July 3, 1929 in Monticello, AK to the late Ruby Ashford and Artis Jefferson. Art confessed a hope in Christ at an early age at Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church in Monticello. He received his formal education in Monticello. He later moved to St. Louis, where he enlisted in the US Air Force, serving from 1949-1953 and earning an honorable discharge.
Art was employed at Lambert Airport until his retirement. He was not only considered a fine dresser, he was considered a role model that loved his family and friends dearly.
The loving gift of eternal peace came upon Art on June 22, 2009 at St. Louis VA Hospital Jefferson Barracks, where he was a faithful, brave soldier trusting in the Lord until the end.
Art was preceded in death by his mother and father; sister, Pinkie Simpson; three brothers, Johnny Fred Jefferson, Joe Stanley and Artis Jefferson; one niece, Doris Jefferson; two brothers-in-law, Emmett Ward and James Thomas, Sr.
Art leaves to cherish his precious memories two sisters, Mae Ellen Thomas and Maurine Ward, both of St. Louis; four sons, Willie Tanner, Trey Owens and Kevin Hurt of St. Louis and Rodney Jefferson of Minneapolis, MN; goddaughter, Hope Roberson of St. Louis; one aunt, Ernestine Stanley of Monticello and many nieces, nephews, cousins and devoted friends.