Deland Jefferson

Deland Leonard Jefferson was born to the late Leonard and Estelle Pauline Jefferson on September 26, 1948, in Philadelphia Pennsylvania.

Leonard was educated in the Philadelphia Public School System graduating from Gilespie Jr. High School and Thomas Edison High School in 1966. He loved track and field and he also played football. Leonard also attended community college of Philadelphia.

Leonard met the love of his life Carol Maxine Graham and the two were married in 1968. Their union of 55 years produced their son Dwayne Kenneth Jefferson.

In 1968 Deland was drafted into the United States Army. In the Army he was sent to Vietnam in 1968 where he was a communication specialist in the 101st Airborne Division, he served 3 years where he was awarded the brown star and purple heart. After the Army Leonard was employed with the city of Philadelphia in the streets department. He retired in 2011 after 35 years of service.

 Leonard loved to travel and play sports, he went to basketball and football games, and he loved going to the movies. Leonard enjoyed Family gatherings enjoying his cousins and in-laws. He and Carol were always at the stadium cheering on the Eagles.

Carol was the love of his life, and they were foster parents to many children for over 30 years.

Leonard leaves to cherish his memory: His beloved wife, Carol Jefferson, son: Dwayne Kenneth Jefferson Sr., Daughter: Emerald Copeing, son: Marcellus Simpkins. Grandchildren: Dwayne Jamal Philmore Jefferson, D'nyah Leon Philmore Jefferson, Marcellus Jr. and Kahlee Copeing, Brother-In-Law: Clyde Graham, Sister-In-Law: Sylvia Graham, Cousins: Sonny, Howard, Deborah, Gregory, Michael, Ricky, Darryl, Miggie and Edith , Caretakers: Vivian Wharton, Michael Johnston, Yazlynn Johnston, Mary Briggs and Barbara Clark.