It is with great confidence to be “absence from the body is to be present with the Lord,” it is publicly announced the passing of Mrs. Lillie Ruth Jeffress who peacefully entered eternity on February 10, 2026, at the age of 97. Born on November 3, 1928, in McCormick, South Carolina, Lillie was the cherished only daughter of the late John Hill and Essie Mae Cash.

Reared and nurtured by her stepfathers Manning Cain and Oscar Cash, Ruth’s life as a youth was filled with adventures from climbing trees to riding horses, supported by her loving parents and supported by a close-knit family.

Lillie's early education began at Washington Street School and continued at JC Price Elementary School in Greensboro, North Carolina. She attended James B. Dudley High School, the first Black high school in Guilford County, until her sophomore year when life’s responsibilities called her to work.

In 1948, Lillie made her way to Farrell, Pennsylvania, where she embraced her new home and became a devoted member of First Baptist Church. Her spiritual journey deepened when she was baptized in 1953 under the guidance of Rev. Ira B. Lavigne.

In 1960, after moving to New York City she met a policeman in Rosalyn, NY, who told her that she would be his wife. His name was Rev. Joseph L. Jeffress, who once served at Community Baptist Church, and they married on April 21, 1962, until parted by his death in 2007.

While in New York Lillie was employed by several homes which included Thomas Durant and the Casner Family. Ultimately, Lillie, along with her husband, returned to Shenango Valley to care for the needs of her mother and stepfather. Lillie’s warm spirit and compassionate nature shone brightly as she worked for 17 years at the Mercer County Living Center, and also a truck driver for Copey’s Moving and Storage.

Lillie was a woman of many talents and passions. A proud member of the Silver Trumpet Gospel Choir, she traveled from bustling Atlanta to vibrant New York City. Her love for the arts saw her take classes at George Christy Art School, where she showcased her budding talent in local art shows. She also actively participated in her community by working at voter registration polls and supporting civil rights movements.

As a member of First Baptist Church, Lillie lived out her faith as a member of the Sanctuary and Inspirational Choirs at First Baptist Church making a joyful noise! She also served as a member of the culinary arts ministry at the church and enjoyed reading God’s Holy Word.

Lillie dedicated herself to shaping young minds, teaching children the wonders of letters and numbers, laying the foundation for their future education. Lillie was an integral part of a summer enrichment and early education literacy project sponsored in conjunction with First Baptist, Ruth A.M.E. Zion and Valley Baptist Churches.

Among her cherished memories, Lillie held close her favorite scripture, the 23rd Psalm, and her favorite song, “I Am a Living Testimony.” Lillie’s legacy of love, generosity, and resilience will forever remain etched in the hearts of her family and friends.

She leaves behind her beloved cousin and caretaker, Gladys Knight, along with a host of other family members and friends who will cherish her memory, including her cousins, Quani Brodie and Marcia Shannonhouse, along with a cadre of nieces and nephews.

Lillie was preceded in death by husband, her parents, stepfathers, brother Eddie Bostocky, and other cherished relatives.

In this time of reflection and remembrance, we encourage all who knew Lillie to come together in love, celebration, and gratitude for the life she lived and the memories she leaves behind. Her life will be recognized with a 10:00 AM public viewing on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at First Baptist Church, 1120 Darr Ave in Farrell. The Celebration of Life services will begin at 11:00 AM with Pastor Robert Simpson as the celebrant. After the committal ceremony, she will be laid to rest among her beloved ancestors at the Morefield Cemetery.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Lillie Ruth Jeffress elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 1059 Hamilton Ave, Farrell, PA 724.983.1523

Twenty -Third Psalm
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.