Vada "Rusty" Evilee Jeffers

September 10, 1933 - April 8, 2017

Vada Evilee Jeffers went home to be in Heaven with the Lord on April 8, 2017, at the age of 83. She was born Vada Evilee Sibert in Sibert, KY on Sept. 10, 1933 to James and Mary (Craft) Sibert. Growing up in a small country town, she was one of 10 siblings. As a young child she was given the nickname “Rusty” for her beautiful red hair. After graduating in 1950, from Monroe High School in Butler County Ohio, she joined the United States Navy serving as an Administrative Secretary. In summer of 1953 while serving in Bremerton, WA, Rusty met her soon to be husband LeRoy Jeffers who had been serving in the U.S. Marine Corps aboard the USS Essex during the Korean War. After a brief courtship, they were married in Bremerton, WA, and remained married for 61 years. In 1954, LeRoy and Rusty resided in Santa Barbara, CA, to begin their lives and raise a family. She was a devoted mother to her son and 2 daughters: Steve (Christie) Jeffers, Lynda, and Karen Jeffers. She was also a favorite Grandmother to her 14 grandchildren and 6 Great-grandchildren, who loved to call her Granny. In 1981, she was employed at the Santa Barbara Humane Society as an Executive Secretary for 33 years, and retired in Nov. of 2014 with a celebration for her dedication and commitment. Vada “Rusty” loved working jigsaw puzzles, reading books, taking long walks, camping at Avila Beach, attending Santa Barbara Community Church, and watching her favorite T.V. shows: “Dancing With the Stars” and “Walker, Texas Ranger.” She will be remembered as devoted to her beloved husband and family. She was a true patriot and very proud to have served her country. She had a funny sense of humor and held on to her grassroots as a country girl and an Ohio State “Buckeye.” She was a kind, compassionate, and loving wife, mother, grandmother, colleague, and friend. Rusty was greatly loved and will be fondly remembered. We would like to thank all of the people who brought love, happiness, care, and friendship to Rusty throughout her lifetime. She asked for a simple and private family burial service which will be held at the Santa Barbara Cemetery.