Richard P. Jefferis

Richard P. Jefferis, 62, of St. James City, formerly of Salem, Mass., died Friday, July 2, 2010 in Bay Pines V.A. Health Care Center, St. Petersburg, Fla. following a brief illness.

Born in Salem, the son of Irene (Ruane) Jefferis of Salem and the late John M. Jefferis, he attended St. James Grammar School and was graduated from Bishop Fenwick High School. Richard then attended North Shore Community College for two years before joining the United States Army Company D 1st Medical Division.

Following his discharge, Richard attended Salem State College School of Nursing and was then employed by the Beverly Hospital in its Pulmonary Clinic until relocating to Greenfield where he continued working in local hospitals. Eighteen years ago, he moved to Fort Myers and became a Phlebotomist, working in Pneumo Therapy.

Richard enjoyed nature and wildlife and especially loved gardening. He was very well known for his flower gardens and was an avid bird watcher.

Surviving Richard, in addition to his mother, is his sister, Maureen Ames of Salem and his nephew, Blair M. Ames of Bethsda, Maryland.

His funeral was held at Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal Street, Salem, on Saturday, July 17, 2010. Those who wish, may make memorial contributions to Viet Nam Veterans of America, Chapter 908, P.O. Box 8043, Lynn, Mass. 01904-0043.