Obituary
Jefferson, Jr. Harry I.- Harry was born in Boston, MA to Harry Jefferson and Joan (Gallagher) Jefferson. He was raised in Cambridge. Harry attended Longfellow public elementary school and received his high school diploma from Charles River Academy also in Cambridge.
Harry thrived at CRA. He was a member of the soccer, wrestling, and lacrosse teams, and elected class president. As a budding artist, he studied at Boston’s MFA and Butera School of Art. Harry also contributed illustrations to his high school newspaper. He was a lifelong artist who worked in pastels, oil and acrylic paints. Over the years, Harry gifted many works to family and friends who treasure and display them to this day.
Harry was a proud Vietnam era veteran. In the early 1970’s, he enlisted in the Army. During his service in the Armored Calvary, Harry attained the rank of Sergeant. He served a long tour of duty near the DMZ in South Korea, where he was promoted to Tank Commander. Harry was honorably discharged and retired after sustaining a serious injury during military readiness maneuvers.
After the service, Harry returned to life in the Cambridge and Somerville area. Harry became co-owner of an auto body shop. Later, he reconnected with Cynthia Leto. They were devoted life-partners and bought a home in Halifax, MA. When Cynthia developed cancer, Harry became her caregiver. He did so for more than 25 years until her passing.
Harry had a big heart. He was a loving son, grandson, brother, uncle and nephew. He is survived by his siblings, in-laws as noted, and other relatives. Brother, Paul Jefferson of Cambridge, MA. Sister, Diana Stone-Leary and Robert Leary of Cambridge, MA. Brother, Gregory and Christina Stone of Exeter, NH. Harry had several nieces and nephews who he showered with his love. Abigail Jefferson of Cambridge, MA. Elizabeth Leary of Cambridge, MA. Thomas Stone of Saint Petersburg, FL. Olivia Stone and William Gulliver of Exeter, NH. Harry is also survived by his Uncle, John Gallagher and wife Song Gallagher of El Paso Texas, Cousin Winnifred Dekarski of Framingham, MA and many more cousins.
Calling hours will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) on THURSDAY, September 19th from 9:00AM to 11:00AM. Followed by words of remembrances at 11:00AM.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.
Services will conclude with interment at Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne at 1:45PM. Please meet directly at the gate.