Ken Jefferson

Ken Jefferson passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on Sunday, March 4, 2018, at Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital near Charlottesville, Virginia, at the age of 65. Ken was a passionate friend, musician, scuba diver, dog lover, photographer, and broadcaster. A native Virginian, Ken graduated from the University of Florida before beginning a career in television news that touched more lives than anyone can count, including viewers, co-workers and competitors, who will forever appreciate his grace, professionalism and dedication to getting it right. Equally skilled at conveying either the most difficult story or the most lighthearted one, Ken always knew the facts were as important as the people in the story. Ken's broadcasting career included 25 years as a reporter and anchor at WHIO-TV in Dayton, Ohio, several years at WWSB-TV in Sarasota, Florida, and seven years at WVIR-TV in Charlottesville, Virginia. During his career, Ken earned nine Emmy awards, two Edward R. Murrow awards and was a key player in dozens of other honors recognizing his skill as a live reporter, investigative journalist and news anchor. Ken interviewed presidents and plain people alike, telling their stories in a way that crossed through the television screen into living rooms across the United States. He was a "newsman's newsman" who never lost sight that his knowledge and experience were gifts to be shared with those around him, especially young reporters and producers just working their way into the business. Ken was someone who was equally quick to laugh and to shoulder a workload and help others.

Ken was preceded in death by his father, Edward Kenneth Jefferson. He is survived by his mother, Alease M. Jefferson; his sister, Donna Groome and her husband, Roger; his niece, Kristina Graham and her husband, Chris; his great-niece, Kaitlyn Alease; his great-nephew, Colin Blake; and his companion, Michael Banton. A dedicated dog lover, Ken cherished his time with the late General and Jackson, and is survived by his beloved black Lab, Lucy.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist, or "Almost Home" in care of the Nelson County Humane Society, 29 Stagecoach Road, Lovingston, Virginia 22949, www.nelsonspca.org, ph. 434-263-7722.

A memorial service will be held at the Trinity United Methodist Church, 215 South Sycamore Street, Petersburg, Virginia, 23803, on Saturday, March 24, 2018. The family will receive friends during the hour before the 2 p.m. service begins.

Share memories and condolences at www.charltonandgroomefuneralhome.com.

The family is being served by Charlton and Groome Funeral Home, Fishersville, VA.

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