JEFFERSON, Welton M.

The Rev. Welton M. Jefferson answered the Master's call to come home and rest on March 25, 2004, in Phoenix AZ. He was Born in Gainesville TX, and was educated in Clovis N.M. After graduation he served in the U.S. Army. After his discharge he moved to Oakland CA, were he became the first African-American certified x-ray technician. After relocating to Phoenix, he accepted his call to the preaching ministry. Rev. Jefferson pastored churches in Surprise and Eloy AZ, at the time of his passing, he was Pastor of the Greater Friendship Baptist Church in Phoenix. He is survived by his loving wife Jean, one son Nigil, 3 daughters, Sandra and Diane Pinkney and Wanda Reed, 4 sisters, 2 brothers, 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Visitation was Fri April 2, 2004, at Preston Funeral Home, 3800 S. Central Ave. and Sat. April 3, 2004, at the South Phoenix Missionary Baptist Church, 2006 E. Broadway Phoenix with services following. Interment at Resthaven Park Cemetery. Preston Funeral Home is serving the family Published in the Arizona Republic on 4/2/2004.