Donald B. Jeffery, Sr.

Donald B Jeffery Sr

Southgate, MI.

Donald B Jeffery Sr, 95, passed away December 15, 2022. Don is survived by his beloved wife of 77 years, Mariann: sons Daniel Jeffery Sr, Kenneth (Sheila) Jeffery, and Donald (Juli) Jeffery Jr. and grandchildren Kelly (Loren) Hirvela, Daniel Jeffery Jr, Adam Wood, Christopher Jeffery, and Kevin Wood; and great grandchildren Austin Jeffery, and Chloe Hirvela. He was preceded in death by daughter Cathy (Gordon) Wood, and grandson Eric Wood.

After serving in the army during WWII and educating at the Graduate School of Banking – Madison, University of Wisconsin, Don fulfilled a 75-year career in banking and public service. He retired from NBD Bank in 1995, after 47 years in correspondent banking. He then formed Don Jeffery & Associates, where he consulted with bankers across the Midwest, Chambers of Commerce, Rotary clubs, and civic organizations. Many considered him an icon in Michigan banking for his depth of assistance. He was designated Lifetime Honorary Member by both Michigan banking organizations and was named Banker of the Year in 1994 by the Michigan Bankers Association.

Don instructed at Central Michigan and Northern Michigan Universities, and bank regulatory organizations. He served as president of the Michigan Traveling Circus, a banking service organization and secretary / treasurer & board member of the Michigan Counsel of Economic Education. In 2018, the City of Southgate chose Don as the Heritage Days grand marshal.

His love of sports was both in active participation and boundless optimism for the local collegiate & professional teams. In retirement, he authored the bestselling book, “A History of Michigan Banking” and thousands of poems including his last from 11/29/22:

“Dear Family & Friends. It looks like it’s time to sleep forever. Remember our souls are working together. Many people passed on before us. Others will follow after the fuss. It looks like The Lord is not ready yet. Maybe it’s a normal sleep I’ll get.”

Per his request, the family will have a celebration of life. Memorial contributions are suggested to the George Harding Scholarship Fund that provides educational funding for college students majoring in finance, accounting, business administration, economics, and agriculture. Michigan Banking Association, George Harding Scholarship Fund, 507 S. Grand Ave, Lansing, MI 48933. Link: https://michigan.bank/iCore/Events/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=DONATION&WebsiteKey=d12bf992-42fc-4fa0-96db-a8eab010900e

Information: The Martenson Family of Funeral Homes, Inc. Allen Park Chapel, 313-386-6600. www.martenson.com