BSc, MD, FRCP
June 20, 1943 - September 13, 2024
Following the call of the loon, with paddle in hand, John began his final canoe trip after a meaningful life devoted to service, learning, and adventure. He loved to sing, travel, read, eat, talk, and he adored his family.
John was in his 82nd year, loving husband to Sheryn (Ingram) and proud father of David (Andrea McConkey), Kristin (Patrick Henry), Kathryn, and Amy (Darrin Davis). Much loved grandfather to Bella, Tegan, Ross, Aria and Sadie. John will be fondly remembered as the master of blueberry pancakes, lover of rock moving, and a man with a keen intellect and large breadth of knowledge.
Born in Hamilton, John spent his early years on Glengrove Ave in Toronto. He was the eldest of three brothers, Jim and David (Gail), born to Dorothy and Bill (William) Jefferies. The family moved to Cumnock Crescent, Oakville in 1952. He attended St. Jude’s Anglican Church where he was a featured boy soprano. John went on to continue exploring and expressing his love of music throughout his life, sharing a deep and meaningful bond with his mother in particular, through their shared love of classical and operatic music.
John went on to study Biochemistry at McMaster University, before earning his Medical Degree at Queen’s University. He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at the Wellesley Hospital in Toronto where he began his career. In search of a position at a hospital closer to cottage country, John moved to Orillia in 1974 where he began a remarkable career serving the community in his professional medical practice for over 40 years. The nights and weekends of Emergency and ICU on-call work, in addition to his regular weekly practice, reflected an extraordinary level of commitment for JJ, as he was affectionately known by his colleagues. His brother Jim, who was ill with schizophrenia for much of his life, was also never far from John’s mind.
With his priorities clearly on display, John built a cottage before he owned a home. His vision of a family getaway close to Algonquin Park became a reality when he purchased a lot on Rabbit Bay, Lake of Bays. His love of Canada’s north was fostered by his father who took his family camping from an early age. John spent several summers as a camper and staff member at the Taylor Statten Camps where he developed a love of canoe trips. Even amidst his demanding medical career, John always made time for spring canoe trips with his children, turning these outings into cherished annual rituals of renewal. This love of paddling took John as far north as the Horton River, NWT and west to Haida Gwaii.
John and Sheryn welcomed four children into their lives who were fortunate to grow up in the Belmoral Drive neighbourhood of Orillia. The family joined St. Paul’s United Church, where John was a dedicated member of the choir until his final year. John was often engaged as a soloist with his fine baritone voice and he quickly became an enthusiastic member of the Cellar Singers. His love for music extended to the theatre, where he starred as the leading man in numerous Mariposa Arts Theatre musicals at the Orillia Opera House. He was also a dedicated patron of the arts, which saw him regularly travel to see his beloved operas, symphonies and musicals.
In retirement, his dedication to his community and family remained unwavering. He volunteered for various charitable organizations and planned not one but two benefit concerts for Ukraine. He also took incredible care of his aging mother Dorothy into her 104th year, regularly delivering soup, companionship, and support to her in Oakville.
John passed peacefully at home, listening to music, surrounded by his loving family after battling a rare mantle-cell lymphoma cancer. The family is grateful for the loving care of Dr. Ramy Kamal and the oncology team under Dr. Nay at RVH. He will be remembered as a man who gave all of himself – to his patients, his family, his music and community. His legacy is one of service, love and loyalty. His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
Family will receive friends at Carson Funeral Homes – L.Doolittle Chapel 54 Coldwater St. E Orillia (705)326-3595 on Thursday Sept. 19th from 2 – 4 pm and 6 – 8 pm. A service to celebrate John’s life will be held on Friday Sept. 20, 2024 at 11 am at St. Paul’s Centre in Orillia with a reception to follow. The family kindly asks that donations in John’s memory be made to the Couchiching Conservancy or St. Paul’s United Church, Orillia.
Condolences
Angela Lafontaine
Nov 14, 2024I am so sad to be learning today of John's death and offer my deepest condolences to the family. The first musical I saw John in was “Annie Get Your Gun” and I remember being in awe. While I never had the chance to be on stage with him for a MAT production, I was both honoured and humbled to be the soprano soloist to his baritone for Faure’s Requiem in the early 2000’s with Barrie’s Lyrica Choir. Such a classy guy and a loss to the Orillia and area arts scene. May he rest in deepest peace.
Joshua Halbot
Sep 21, 2024Getting to spend time with John during the 50th Anniversary Show last November was an absolute privilege and a delight. His joie de vivre, talent, and passion for the arts will leave an indelible impression on me for the rest of my life. I consider myself very lucky to have shared a stage with John, Dave, and Bella, and will remember John with nothing but fondness.
John Copp
Sep 20, 2024John Jefferies was a kind, considerate, joy filled man. I worked as a support staff person at OSMH starting in 1983. John always said hello with a smile no matter when or where in the busy environment of the hospital. I was also fortunate enough to experience his vocal talents in choirs and on stage at the Opera house. My thoughts are with the family.
Sandra Atkinson
Sep 19, 2024Thinking of the Jeffries family today. What a wonderful life he lived.
Grace Surphlis
Sep 19, 2024So very sorry to learn about John's passing. I remember our pleasant conversations when John came to Oakville to visit my neighbour Dorothy. Bill my spouse was always happy to speak with another Queens Medical graduate. Rest in peace
Craig Brown
Sep 18, 2024Hi Folks, Such a wonderful guy, fond memories of the family reunions...we are deeply saddened... From Craig, Patty, Nick and Liam
Marlene Don
Sep 18, 2024David, I am so very sorry for your loss. I never met your brother, but did read his obituary with great interest. What an amazing person he was! I hope that knowing he was so respected and loved during his lifetime will provide you and your family with some comfort. My thoughts are with you and Gail. Marlene
Pat Thor
Sep 17, 2024Dear Sheryn, Extending sincere condolences to you and your family. John will be missed by many. Pat Thor
Nancy Harris
Sep 17, 2024Tony and I worked with John, our colleague, over many years at OSMH, and appreciated his caring and kindness. We also admired and respected the fact that his interests and talents extended beyond his medical role to the community: music, advocacy for many worthy causes, and outdoor adventures. He was devoted to his family, and took great pride in all their accomplishments. He was also someone who sincerely thought about an issue and always tried to do what was right. He confronted his final illness with courage and dignity Truly a life well-lived. Sincerest sympathy to Sheryn and family at this tough time. Nancy (Harris) and (Tony Reid)
Sarah Barker
Sep 17, 2024So sorry to hear about John. I love that I was able to witness his recent performance in the musical review at the Orillia Opera House - so impressed and loved that it was a family affair. How lucky to be able to perform with your granddaugther and son - what an amazing experience and memory. Talent and family together - the best! I have already heard several people recalling other fond memories of him. A very special man. He will be missed by many but especially by his treasured family. Thinking of you. Our condolences to Sheryn, Katherine, Bella and the rest of the family. Cherish.
Steve Will and Chin Hew
Sep 17, 2024Heart felt condolences to J.J. and his family. He was a wonderful man and a treasured colleague. His smile could light up a room and his intellect was a spark that inspired thought and reflection. We will miss him so much and fondly remember his gentle nature. God bless.
Scott and Joy Bell
Sep 16, 2024Sheryn and family, Joy and I are so sorry for your loss. John leaves a great legacy of selflessness and service to community. I’m sure his values will continue to inspire those of us who were fortunate know him. On a personal level, his great baritone voice inspired in so many of us a love of and devotion to music and singing.
Michele Masson
Sep 16, 2024I worked with JJ for many years at OSMH ER as a RN. I remember his kindness with the pts and staff and his professionalism. I am so sorry for your loss
Linda & Jennifer Brethour
Sep 16, 2024Sheryn, Our deep condolences on John's passing.
Andre Powell
Sep 15, 2024I am so sorry to for your loss. John was a close friend of my parents and was a wonderful neighbour. I have many great memories of him, but one that stands out is when John took David and me to Queens to kick off David’s first year at Queens and my third year. It was a great trip, John bought us lunch along the way, and John helped me to move all my stuff into my new house. After moving me in John hugged me a wished me a good year. What a kind man he was.
Gord and Fran Hunter
Sep 15, 2024The passing of John will leave a big hole in your family and the community. We knew him as a wonderful human being So very sorry for your loss.
Mariposa Arts Theatre
Sep 15, 2024We at Mariposa Arts Theatre are deeply saddened by this loss. John is remembered very fondly by our theatre community, and we send all of our love to his friends and family during this difficult time.
Gail Johnson
Sep 15, 2024It is with profound sadness in reading of Dr. Jeffries passing. I recall working with "J squared" in the ICU. He was a compassionate gentle man and physician who cared for and about his patients and his colleagues. May his family be comforted with the memories if time spent together. Sincere condolences to all.
Stephen Hall
Sep 15, 2024Condolences to Sheryn and all of the family. Such a loving and inspiring obituary for John. It made me laugh when reading about the blueberry pancakes as I have fond memories of gulping dow my fair share on our canoes trips. What a wonderful life lived and shared. I will always remember John and his laugh. A big man with a tender heart who always seem to be a torch of encouragement. Will greatly miss him and my thoughts and prayers are with the family. Kindness was always freely given by John and may you all receive a vast amount of it now as you navigate the coming time. All my best and thanks for sharing John with myself and the world. Cheers
Victoria Banks (nee Vicky Dodington)
Sep 15, 2024I enjoyed reading your beautiful words about John. What a well-lived life and a great legacy to leave behind. I will never forget John's big smile and even bigger booming baritone voice - a lovely and consistent presence throughout my years in the Cellar Singers. Sending love to all of you.
Beth Cumberland
Sep 15, 2024My sincere condolences to the Jefferies family at this time. My connection with John Jefferies goes way back to OTHS , in Oakville. John's Dad was my home room teacher as well as my Geography teacher. He was a kind and gentle man and he took the time to know everyone in his class. His tweed jacket, grey flannels and a handsome tie were part of his demeanor and he was a very well liked teacher at our high school. This was in the 1960s. Fast forward about 40 years. We are at the Orillia Farmers Market Christmas show at the Opera house. I see a man towering over the crowd and I think: Oh my goodness, it is my old teacher , Mr. Jefferies. Of course the math did not add up and I realised it was one of his sons. John. I walked over and related my story. He broke into a wide grin and we both decided he was about the same age as when his Dad taught me. John has given so much to Orillia in so many areas as it obvious by the obituary. I think he must have followed in his parents' footsteps as they did the same in many ways, in Oakville. Dr. John Jefferies will be missed by many in the town he loved so much. Buff Cumberland
Christal Wood
Sep 15, 2024John was a person that would pop into my life at various moments and I enjoyed all of my encounters with him. Whether it was saying hello to me and my dad after Sunday service as a young girl or running into him at Robinson’s up in Dorest he always took the time to check in. Just last year John made sure to visit our family in the hospital as my father was passing. He shared a beautiful solo at his funeral Rise Again by the Rankin Family. It touched me deeply. I will listen to this song and think of you fondly John. Our condolences to the Jefferies Family. From Christal Wood and family.
The Munday Family
Sep 14, 2024We are so sorry Jeffries family for your loss. John brought such light and joy to those who were fortunate enough to know him. Keeping you all in our thoughts at this difficult time. Angela, Ian, and Brynn Munday
Toni Smith
Sep 14, 2024Sheryn and Family. So very shocked and saddened to read of Johns passing. He really was an exceptional gentleman. Thinking of you and your family with love at this very difficult time.. Sincerely Toni Smith
Christina Bosco
Sep 14, 2024I was so honoured to be able to share the stage with John at the Mariposa Arts Theatre’s 50th anniversary production, in November, of 2023. I remember hearing the audience errupt with applause upon his entrance on stage with his resounding rendition of Oklahoma’s “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning”. It still brings tears to my eyes. He was a beautiful and talented singer and a natural performer. I’m so very thankful to have had that opportunity with him. Unfortunately, Orillia has lost a star, but, Heaven has gained one. I just know he is up there, singing with the Angels. My love and condolences to his entire family as well. With love: Christina Bosco
Gayle Cooper Turner
Sep 14, 2024I remember John and the whole Jefferies family so well. we literally lived around the block from each other. John’s Dad taught me history at OTHS and presided over our school’s UN club. John and I sang duets in our teens and I will remember him fondly as a lovely young man. My sincere condolences to his family. Gayle Cooper Turner Ottawa
Sarah
Sep 14, 2024To Dr Jefferies family I had the pleasure of knowing Dr Jefferies for 26yrs. As a young ER nurse he was always so kind and egar to teach. Dr Jefferies never made you feel small for asking any questions. He always said hello, and had friendly chats. Dr Jefferies would give me order's to care for his patients and always say thank you. He is the only MD who I have e ever worked with that could give good quality CPR with one hand! When I started outback country camping he would share is love of canoeing, and nature with me. I will alwys remember his beautiful smile, and his wonderful singing voice. I will miss his calls for flowers, and his little chats. The last day I saw your dad, he addressed me by name, I will cherish our small chat. He thanked us all as hewent home. I am sending you all my love during this very difficult, and sad time. I am honored to have worked with Dr Jefferies and had the pleasure of getting to know him on a personal level. Dr Jefferies you will be so missed by many, and I thank you for all your service to Our community. Love Sarah xo
Don Atkinson
Sep 14, 2024JJ was a pillar of the community and a cornerstone for health care at OSMH. He will be greatly missed. My most sincere condolences to Sharyn and family.
Dave ORNJ Graham
Sep 14, 2024I’ve been honoured and privileged to know John for 40 years, as a teacher of all four of the kids and more recently as an honorary member of the family. I’ve shared many great conversations with John, sitting around the table after a holiday meal, watching a hockey game with a glass of red wine, and sometimes waiting for trick-or-treaters to come by the house on Hallowe’en. His loss will be felt by all of us in the community, but his legacy will live on through his beloved family. I will miss him. Be at peace. ❤️❤️🧡🧡😢
Doug Lewis
Sep 14, 2024Orillia has lost a solid citizen, a capable and hard working physician, and Sheryn and the children have lost a husband and father. My deepest condolences to all. Doug Lewis