James “JJ” Ray Jeffries

James “JJ” Ray Jeffries, of Columbus, died Thursday, April 30, 2026 at his home. He was born on June 21, 1952, the son of Raymond and Nettie Jeffries in Columbus. Jim graduated from Columbus High School in 1972. He married Kathy Jo Hill on January 4, 1974, and they had two children, Kelli Hacker and Kristen Mackey.

He worked his entire life as a mechanic and retired from Ferguson Trucking. He was passionate about anything with an engine. This ranged from lawn trackers, motorcycles, classic cars and hot rods, and semi-tractor trailers. He was also a member of the Murat Shriners.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Kelli (Randy Coonse) Hacker and Kristen (Jason) Mackey; brothers, Bobby, Kevin and David Jeffries; sisters, Betty Spears, Susie Brunson, Juanita Hill, Jackie Stern, Nancy Rotert, and Rosemary Purtlebaugh; granddaughters, Kaeleigh (Brendan) Larrison, Lauren (Zachary) Ferrenburg, Lillian Mackey, and McKenna Hacker; great-grandchildren, Oaklynn and Weston James Larrison; sister-in-law, Karen (David) Hill Dugan, brother-in-law, Mark Hill; nephews, James (Ally) Hunter Hill, Matthew (Jen) Dugan; niece, Cassie (Bob) Stillinger; and many other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Kathy of 45 years in 2019; his parents Raymond and Nettie Jeffries; brothers, Donald, Marvin, Frank, and Junior.

A graveside service and interment will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, May 4, 2026 at Rest Haven Cemetery in Edinburgh with Pastor Bob Stillinger officiating. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, May 3, 2026 at Jewell Rittman Funeral Service and Crematory.

Pallbearers will be Hunter Hill, Matt Dugan, Zach Ferrenburg, Brendan Larrison, Randy Coonse, and Jason Mackey.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Services were entrusted to Jewell Rittman Funeral Service and Crematory.