Jeffrey Deese

A Life Cut Short Too Soon Jeffrey Deese, 33, was born on July 28, 1992, in Brooklyn, New York. In 1994, Barbara Deese welcomed Jeffrey into her home and lovingly embraced the role of his mother. Jeffrey shared an extraordinary bond with Barbara. He adored being close to her, often sneaking into her room just to spend time with her or sleep beside her. Herman Frazier proudly stepped into the role of Jeffrey's stepfather, helping to raise him in a loving and supportive home. Jeffrey was blessed with three brothers and five sisters and, later in life, was joyfully introduced to two older brothers. Throughout his life, he was surrounded by the unwavering love of family and friends. Jeffrey was diagnosed with autism at an early age and attended the Birch Family and William O'Connor School for early intervention services. He later enrolled in the District 75 program in Brooklyn, where he attended P4 and then the Connie Lekas School (811K), graduating with his high school diploma. Following graduation, Jeffrey attended Elmy's Special Services, where he participated in day rehabilitation and overnight respite programs until they were interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Jeffrey lived a vibrant and active social life. He loved traveling, weekend outings, and celebrating holidays with his family. One of his greatest joys was singing—especially "Happy Birthday." Whenever he heard someone singing, he would stop whatever he was doing and eagerly join the celebration. His final birthday celebration was in August 2024, when family and friends gathered at Applebee's to celebrate his 32nd birthday. His joyful spirit was so contagious that everyone in the restaurant section joined in singing "Happy Birthday" to him. Jeffrey had a remarkable gift for touching the hearts of everyone he met. Jeffrey appreciated order and routine. He carefully lined up his shoes, toy trucks, dinosaurs, water bottles, and many of his favorite belongings with great precision. If anyone disturbed his arrangement, he made sure they knew he wasn't happy about it. He had a special love for trucks, vehicle tires, water bottles, and, most of all, dinosaurs. Jeffrey also loved being outdoors and participating in activities. Many days he could be found fully dressed, suitcase packed and waiting by the door, ready for his next adventure. He also had a hearty appetite and thoroughly enjoyed sharing meals with those he loved. On January 29, 2026, as Barbara's health declined and she was no longer able to provide the care Jeffrey needed, he transitioned to a residential facility at Block Institute, where he continued his life's journey. During his time there, Jeffrey adjusted well, enjoyed participating in activities, and built meaningful relationships with the residents and staff who cared for him. On July 6, 2026, the Lord called Jeffrey home, sending His angels to bring His precious son into eternal rest. Though his life was cut far too short, Jeffrey's gentle spirit, infectious smile, and unconditional love left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him. He will forever be remembered, deeply loved, and profoundly missed. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all whose lives he touched. Jeffrey is preceded in death by his grandmother Mary Smith, stepfather Herman Frazier, uncles Lenwood Smith, Matthew Smith, great uncle Nathaniel Greene and cousin Davon Brown. Jeffrey leaves to cherish his memories, his mother Barbara Deese, his brothers Kiva Deese, Radshaan (Arlene) Deese, Marquis Winfield, Lamont Clifton, and Jamal Deese, his sisters Keisha Deese, Edith Deese, Lavonna Deese, Jennifer Deese and Javona Deese, his nieces Jadah Deese, Nya Deese, Janiya Deese, Tyler Moody, Syniah Clifton, Summer Clarke, and Brooke Clarke, his nephews, Joshua Deese, Jacob Deese, Mason Deese, Terry (TJ) Deese, and Josiah Alava, aunts, Gloria (Richard) Smith and Carrie Hargrove, special aunts, Wanda Burris, Debbie Smith and Terry Smith, parent Burnadet Winfield, along with a host of cousins, other family and friends.