Benjamin Jefferson 3rd

With profound sorrow and a heavy heart, we announce the untimely passing of Benjamin Jefferson III, affectionately known as BJ, who left this world on May 26, 2026, at the tender age of 36. Born on May 21, 1990, in the warm community of Canton, Mississippi, Benjamin's life was tragically cut short by gun violence, a loss that reverberates through the hearts of all who knew him. Benjamin was the cherished son of Alfredia Canady and the late Marcil Jefferson. Raised with the values of love, resilience, and determination, he carried these virtues into every aspect of his life. His father, sister Chrysanta Jefferson, and grandparents Benjamin Jefferson Sr., Anne Louise Jefferson, and Robert Earl Canady have all predeceased him, leaving behind a legacy of strength and unity. He leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife Kathryn Nicolay Jefferson, and their children: Daytona Randall, Keyana Jefferson, Keymya Jefferson-Nicolay, Mehleak Marcil Jefferson, and Chrysin S. Jefferson. Benjamin was a devoted father whose joy and pride in his children were boundless. Benjamin's surviving family also includes his mother Alfredia Canady, grandmother Fredia Mae Canady, grandfather Willie D. Adams, brothers Reginald L. McGregor (Tiffany) and Mykeah Jefferson (Travis) Johnson, as well as half-brothers Marcil Jefferson Jr. and Shimaze Barnett, and half-sister Marcella Jefferson. His family will forever hold dear the memories and love he shared with them. His extended family includes Uncle Londell Jefferson, Aunties Michelle Culp, Drennia Smith, Denise Harris, and Magnolia Jefferson. He was also blessed with a god uncle and aunt, Gregory and Calandra Schumacher, and god sisters Dorothy Gates and Amanda Woods. BJ shared an extraordinary bond with his nephews, nieces, and cousins, particularly Antonio Bennett Grover and Terrence Roberts. Benjamin's educational journey began at JJ McClain Elementary and High School in Lexington, Mississippi, before he moved to Iowa, where he graduated from Oelwein High School in 2009. His professional life was marked by versatility and dedication; Benjamin held various jobs, excelling as a handyman, landscaper, and car enthusiast. His passion for music, particularly rapping and freestyling, was a testament to his creative spirit. Known for his infectious laughter and love for family gatherings, Benjamin was a beacon of joy and warmth. He delighted in experimenting with new recipes, proudly considering himself a master chef, especially when praised by his mother. A service to honor and celebrate Benjamin's life will be held on June 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Lemke Funeral Home, located at 2610 Manufacturing Drive, Clinton, Iowa 52732. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Tina Lemke for orchestrating a beautiful farewell and to Rev. Nathaniel Johnson and Ms. Johnson for their spiritual guidance. They also thank friends and family for their kindness, gifts, and shared memories during this difficult time. Though Benjamin's time with us was far too brief, his legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will continue to inspire and guide his family and friends. May he rest in peace, eternally remembered, and deeply cherished.