Jefferies, James Ernest
April 8, 1929 – August 14, 2026
Life long local teacher and educator
It is with deep sadness that the family announces the passing of James Jefferies on August 14, 2026 at the age of 97. He leaves behind a profound legacy of love and wisdom with his surviving family including his dear wife Donnajean, his two sons Ted (Judie) and Andrew (Rosanna) his 7 cherished grandchildren, and his 10 adored great-grandchildren as well as the generations of students he inspired.
Born in Toronto, Ontario, on April 8, 1929, James developed an early appreciation for the natural world. This passion led him to the University of Toronto, where he studied Forestry, earning his degree in 1953. While his academic roots began in the forests, his true calling soon shifted toward cultivating the minds of the next generation.
In 1956, James found his life's work in education when he began teaching at Orillia District Collegiate. That pivotal year brought an even greater blessing when he met his wife, Donnajean, at the school. The two were wed in 1958, embarking on a beautiful journey of companionship and love that would anchor his life.
James later transitioned to Park Street Collegiate Institute, where he remained a respected pillar of the school community until his retirement in 1988. A versatile and brilliant educator, James shared his love of discovery across the sciences, teaching Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Beyond the classroom laboratory, he served for many years as a guidance counselor, offering a steady hand, a compassionate ear, and wise counsel to countless students as they navigated their paths into adulthood.
A true community-minded individual, James spent decades giving back to Orillia. From 1963 to 1980, he volunteered his time on the St. Paul's United Church board and supported the Orillia Public Library. His diverse interests also led him to the Champlain Coin Club, where he actively served as both president and editor. James thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship of the Probus Club and the Couple's Club, finding great joy in connecting with others. When he was not volunteering, he could often be found pursuing his favorite pastimes, enjoying rounds of golf and participating in curling. Above all, James possessed a profound love for the cottage—a sanctuary where he reconnected with nature, found deep peace, and created a lifetime of treasured memories with his family.
James will be remembered as a dedicated mentor, a lifelong learner, and a true gentleman who left an indelible mark on the Orillia community.
Guests will be received at St. Paul’s United Church for a Celebration of life service on Wednesday August 19, 2026 starting at 11am. Guests will be received from 10am. A post service reception luncheon will follow onsite. A family burial will take place at
St Andrews’ St. James Cemetery in Orillia. If desired, in lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Paul’s United Church in James's honor and are greatly appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to Carson Funeral Home – L. Doolittle Chapel in Orillia
Online condolences and memories may be left at www.carsonfuneralhomes.com
Condolences
Colleen O’Neill
Aug 19, 2026Ted, Judie and family. My thoughts are with you all. Although I did not know him well, mostly through your stories and from many years ago, at Park Street, he was always a calm and kind man with a warm smile. A true “gentle”man, in every sense of the word. May your memories be blessings for you at this sad time. Pat and Colleen
Cindy Harrison
Aug 18, 2026Donna-Jean, Ted, Judie and family. Don and I send our deepest condolences to you all. I will always remember Jim for his soft spoken, kind approach. He was a lovely man and i am sure that you will all miss him deeply. May your memories bring you comfort.
Ray and Lauren Cook
Aug 18, 2026Andrew, Rosanna and family We are deeply sorry for your loss Please accept our condolences.
Kevin Sheppard
Aug 18, 2026My sincere condolences to the family. I fondly remember Mr. Jefferies at Park Street as a wonderful teacher, mentor and a guiding light to many.
Don and Jill Roughley
Aug 18, 2026Don and I are sad to hear this news, and at the same time happy that Jim such a long, happy and productive life. We treasure the memories from the last high school reunion we all attended. Love and sympathy to Donnajean and your family.
Elizabeth Wale
Aug 17, 2026sending condolences to the family he was a lovely man from all the Kehoe family
Jim & Mary Lee MacMillan
Aug 17, 2026Our condolences to Donnajean & family. Jim was a well respected member of our neighborhood
Valerie Clarke
Aug 17, 2026Rosanna and Andrew Danny Alex and Chris. We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your dad and grandpa. He lived a long life and enjoyed all the times at the cottage with all of you Love Peter Val Brittany Jack and Mike❤️
Lina Jaeger & Greg Watterton
Aug 17, 2026Andrew and Rosanna, Our condolences to you and your family. May all of the happy memories and shared stories bring you comfort as you celebrate the life of your father. Lina & Greg
Lisa Verdone
Aug 17, 2026Sincerest condolences to the family. Treasured memories of spending time at the beautiful family cottage that Donnajean and Jim generously shared with Ted and Judie’s friends. Love to all at this difficult time, Lisa, Alex, Luke and Thomas.
Nob tapscoytt
Aug 17, 2026He was my grade 11 physics teachet
Allan Byrnell
Aug 17, 2026Donnajean and family, I am saddened to hear of Jim's passing and I send you my deepest condolences. I recall always enjoying his grade 13 Physics class when I attended PSCI. He was a very kind gentleman and a good friend of my parents. A life well lived!! Allan
Paul Connor
Aug 17, 2026Deepest condolences to the family. A fine gentleman that loved a wonderful life.