Jean Wilma Jeffreys

Jean Wilma Jeffreys, who preferred to be called ‘Willie,’ was born August 19, 1940, in Edinburgh, Scotland, to the late Robert and Agnes Paterson, and passed away peacefully in her sleep, with her husband Brant Jeffreys, by her side on June 26, 2022. She is survived by her loving husband, Brant Jeffreys; children, Michelle Trajanovska, Derek Jeffreys (Celestine); grandchildren, Caleb and Zachariah, Melissa Jeffreys; grandchildren, Megan and Emily, Mark Jeffreys (Pamela); grandchildren, Emery, Victoria, Evelyn, and Nicholas. A genuinely independent spirit, Willie arrived in America based on a chance invitation from a couple who were guests at her parent’s hotel, and without a sure path forward; however, people were immediately drawn to her liveliness, humor, and tenacity, and she picked up lifelong friends everywhere she went. While she was a lover of classical music, she made sure to conveniently have an ‘extra’ ticket so that she could offhandedly ask Brant if he was available to attend the symphony, and the rest is history. Willie was an incredible photographer and took pictures everywhere she traveled and of course, of her family. Willie was a true pioneer and led change before its time as she recognized trends. She even flew solo above the World Trade Center prior to 9/11! Willie climbed the corporate ladder in New York City, rising to become a Marketing Director at Time-Life, all the while still ironing the sheets at home and baking shortbread from scratch. Willie is deeply missed by all. Donations in her name may be made to the SPCA of Wake County, North Carolina, or the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina.