The funeral services for the late Mr. James Patrick Jefferson, who departed this life on Saturday, June 21, 2025, will be held on Sunday, June 29 2025 at 1:00 p.m. from the First African Baptist Church in Sylvester, Georgia. Reverend E. Terrell Carter will deliver the Eulogy. Burial will follow in the Shepard Memorial Garden in Sylvester, Georgia. Services may be viewed Facebook Live from the Shipp's Funeral Home Facebook page or by clicking the Video Stream link on this site's Home Page.
James Patrick Jefferson, affectionately known as “Ice Cream,” was born on August 17, 1982, in Albany, Georgia, to Melvin Jefferson and the late Patricia Jefferson.
James was educated in the Worth County School System and graduated from Worth County High School in 2001. After high school, he began working with the Department of Transportation before launching his own semi-truck company, Principles of Success. He later became an owner-operator with Paper Transport, where he continued to grow his career and pursue his love for the open road.
James was a man full of life, known for his adventurous spirit and deep passion for racing. He had a natural talent behind the wheel and a fearless love for speed that few could match. But beyond his hobbies and hard work, James was grounded by the relationships. He shared many of life’s most meaningful moments with Kenyortta Lewis, his devoted partner and closest companion. Their bond was strong, and their journey together was filled with laughter, loyalty, and unforgettable memories.
Those who knew James best will remember him for his quick wit, unfiltered honesty, and ability to make everyone around him laugh. Whether you needed a good joke or some real talk, Ice Cream always delivered. His presence was vibrant, his loyalty unmatched, and his love for family and friends ran deep.
On June 21, 2025, James transitioned from his earthly home and received his wings at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. We find peace in knowing he is reunited with his mother and watching over those he held dear.
James leaves to cherish his memory: his loving partner, Kenyortta Lewis; his children, Kalambria Jackson, Ariel McDuffy, Shyheim Riggins, Damian McDuffy; one grandchild, Kysiar Brown; his father, Melvin Jefferson; siblings, Melvin “Spanky” Jefferson, Shelia Jackson; brother-in-law, Isaac Jackson; nieces and nephews, Desrick Jefferson, London Jefferson, Jordyn Jackson, Kingston Jefferson; a special aunt, Doris James; uncles Homer Chambers, Franklin Jefferson; his godmother, Gloria Milton; and a host of cousins, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and members of the transportation and racing communities who will forever hold his memory in their hearts.
Julia Rainey planted 5 trees in memory of James Patrick Jefferson . - June 24, 2025
Patrick I'm truly gonna miss seeing you on our street. You were a breath of fresh air, you and Spanky grew up with my children and I love you. My condolences 💐 to the family. May God richly bless and keep you during this difficult time. Brenda Womack Hamilton
A person that departs from this earth never truly leaves, for they are still alive in our hearts and minds. Our deepest sympathy. We love y'all! 🫶🏾💙
Sincerely Condolences to the Jefferson Family on behalf of the J. W. Holley High School class of 1969
I would like to send my condolences to the family and friends of Ice Cream. Please remember the that everyone loved him but God loved him best and he is in a better place now. Love you all from my family to your family. We have been made endures for a night but joy shall come. With love ❤️ The Fruster, Frost, Lawson and Atkins Family
I would like to my condolences love from the Ransom and Lewis Family. Patrick, you may be gone but never forgotten. As family and friends will say you gain your wings🪽 good brother so fly 🕊️ high as the sky. We luv you (ICE CREAM)!!
To my Cousins (Melvin, Melvin (Spanky) and Sheila), I pray that the precious memories of Patrick will soon add a smile back to your faces. May the peace of the Holy Spirit cover each of you as you live with this new normal in your lives! I love you all. 🙏🏽🫂💝
With deepest sympathy
Jack & I send our Love & Condolences!
My deepest sympathy for the Jefferson family.🙏🙏🙏
Sorry to hear of this loss. We will continue to pray for your family
To the Jefferson Family: I am so sorry for your loss I pray God will comfort you all during this difficult time.
My sincere condolences to the Jefferson family. I pray that God bestows his infinite love, comfort and peace upon each of you.
My deepest condolences to the family.
My deepest heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the family and friends during this time. Sorry for you all's loss. May God continue to bless and strengthen you all during this time. + R.I.H "Ice cream" +
The Hicks family is so sorry for your loss. Otis and Brenda send our deepest condolences to you and your family. We will keep you all in our prayers.
My condolences to the family
My heart aches to hear this news. My deepest sympathies the family.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.