Delores Mary Evans Jefferson

Mrs. Delores Mary Evans Jefferson, of Elberton, wife of Ray Jefferson, passed away at her home on Wednesday, June 2, 2026, just four-months shy of her 100th birthday.

Delores was born in Auckland, New Zealand on October 20 1926, and migrated to the United States in 1945. She worked as a secretary/bookkeeper at Childs Brothers Granite Company and Childs & Childs Granite Company until her retirement. Mrs. Jefferson was a member of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church.

A lifelong equestrian, Delores bred horses to ride and show. She judged horse show events as a member of Elbert County Saddle Club. She and her husband, Ray, loved to travel, including cruises and motorcycle excursions. Their travel included numerous trips to New Zealand, Europe, and all over the continental United States. As a youth, Delores was a competitive swimmer representing New Zealand. She loved painting and arts and crafts in her “she shed” at her home.

She is preceded in death by her parents, David and Edith Bennett Evans; sister, Barbara Evans; and children: Melanie Ann Bryant and David James Bryant.

Surviving are her husband of 49 years, Ray Jefferson; four daughters: Rebecca “Becky” Bell, Georgiana “Gigi” (Jimmy) Rosser, Brenda (Bobby) Stephens, and Glenda (Michael) Webb; one son, James Ray “Butch” (Debra) Jefferson; nine grandchildren; and nineteen great-grandchildren.

A time of visitation celebrating her life will be held on Tuesday, June 9, from 6:00p.m. until 8:00p.m. at Berry Funeral Home. A memorial service and burial in Elmhurst Cemetery will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, Post Office Box 733, Elberton, GA 30635.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Delores Mary Evans Jefferson.