Pastor Brenda J. Jefferson

Pastor Brenda J. Jefferson, a revered minister and cherished community leader, peacefully transitioned into eternal life on July 30, 2024. Born on August 6, 1955, in Bluff City, Arkansas to the late Samuel Sr. and Dorothy Jefferson, she was a beacon of faith and love, inspiring many through her unwavering devotion to Christ and her passion for music. Raised in Peoria, Pastor Brenda attended Peoria Public Schools before furthering her education at Illinois Central College. Her professional journey included 24 years at Sears and Roebuck, where she retired in 1998. Her spiritual journey gained momentum in 1973 when she dedicated her life to Christ. Developing her gifts at Star of Hope Full Gospel Church under Emeritus Bishop Joseph H. Johnson, Pastor Brenda served faithfully for over 35 years. She held roles including Minister of Music, Choir Director, Sunday School Teacher, and member of the Ministerial Board. Her music ministry resonated nationwide, profoundly impacting many through her singing. She was the composer of “It’s My Desire” and performed and recorded it with “Chosen Generation,” a group she founded. Her collaborations included recording with the late Dr. Mattie Moss Clark and the Church of God in Christ National Choir. Pastor Brenda was featured on their UNAC 5 album with the song “Ye Shall Receive Power” which was composed by her dear friend the late Mr. Kenneth Ward Sr. In 1999, after relocating to the Atlanta, GA area, Pastor Brenda responded to a divine call to establish New Life Christ Centered Ministries. She was faithful to that mandate and led for over a decade with great excellence and fervor until her return home. Pastor Brenda continued her kingdom service at the Greater City of Refuge Worship Cathedral under the leadership of Bishop Timothy E. Criss. Pastor Brenda is survived by her sisters, Minister Deloras Lassiter and Carolyn Jefferson; nieces Kimberly (Del Sr.) Benjamin, Karen Nunn, Roshunda Jefferson, Brandi Jefferson-Gay, Tonya Lassiter; nephews Mark and Erin Jefferson; and numerous great-nieces and nephews. She leaves behind a loving extended family and many who considered her a spiritual mother, including Belinda and Brenda Knox. The “Twins,” as they were affectionately known, were instrumental in her care during her crucial recovery period. Her sister-friends Connie Green and Mary Jackson also held special places in her heart. Preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Samuel Jefferson Jr. and James (Sonny) Jefferson, Pastor Brenda’s legacy of love, faith, and music will continue to inspire and live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Friday, August 9, 2024, at Church of the Living God of Peoria (2815 W. Lake Ave Peoria, IL 61615) at 11:00 a.m. with visitation commencing one hour prior at 10:00 a.m. Bishop Timothy Criss will present the Eulogy. Arrangements were made especially for the “Jefferson” family and professionally directed by T.W. Parks Colonial. Live streaming can be viewed by clicking the link for TW Parks Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/twparkscolonialchapel. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Ms. Brenda J. Jefferson please visit our Sympathy Store. Brenda will be laid to rest at The Historic Springdale Cemetery.

Pastor Brenda J. Jefferson

August 6, 1955 - July 30, 2024