Herbert M. Jeffery, 84, Burr Oak, was born Dec. 5, 1935, in Northbranch. He died June 12, 2020 at home in Wichita, after a long struggle with cancer. Herb was the son of Lewis and Esther (Dillon) Jeffery. He attended Union 1, a one-room school house, and Burr Oak High School, and graduated with a bachelor of science in agriculture from Friends University in 1962.
He married Rosetta Stands in 1961, and they made their home on a farmstead in Northbranch. To this union were born Arlen and Teri. Herb farmed with his dad, older brother Maurice, and nephew Brad. He was a self-taught mechanic, engineer, CAD-designer, and welder, designing farm implements whenever he saw that something should work better. He saw a need for a v-blade plow-fertilizer-air-seeder that would flex over the hills and terraces. Herb and Kelly McNichols teamed up to create the Accu-flex which he designed, and they built and patented in both Canada and the United States. He was a problem-solver and never backed down from a challenge, whether it was trying something new or fixing something old.
An active member of Northbranch Friends Church and community, he was well-known for his generosity and gentle spirit. He was a father-figure to many with his encouraging words, financial support in times of need and willingness to do what needed to be done. He instilled many family traditions including holding Bible studies in the home, reading the Christmas story from the Bible on Christmas eve, memorizing scriptures, and family devotions after breakfast.
He and Rosetta were winter Texans at Oleander Acres for 22 years. They developed many close friends with a farming background from all over the country. In addition to being outside and enjoying God's creation, Herb loved reading with grandchildren, sleeping through Sunday football games, visiting at the kitchen table, listening to Rosetta practice her piano and organ, and rehearsing musical numbers for worship, school and contests. He attended every of his children's school events and his wife's performances and loved every minute.
He is survived by wife of 59 years, Rosetta; son Arlen (Penny) Jeffery of Wichita; daughter Teri (Steve) Price of Valley Center; grandchildren: Allison Jeffery, Lenexa; Eric Jeffery, Wichita; Emilee and Nathan Price, Valley Center; brother, Maurice (Earlene) Jeffery, Superior; brother-in-law, Eugene (Virgina) Stands, Alva, Okla.; and brother-in-law, Don (Caron)Stands, Seiling, Okla. He was well-loved by many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.
His funeral and graveside service were held at 10:30 a.m., at Northbranch Friends Church, Saturday.
Memorials may be given to Northbranch Friends Church, 109 2nd St, Burr Oak, Kan. 66936, in lieu of flowers.
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