Ronald B. Jeffers, 73, of Aquinnah died Friday morning, July 17 at his home surrounded by his family.

He was the husband of Jeananne (Beattie) Jeffers who predeceased him in August of 2007. Jeananne was the former town clerk of Aquinnah. At the time of her death they had been married for 37 years.

Ronald was born on Sept. 27, 1935 in Oak Bluffs the son of Otis P. Jeffers Sr. and Thelma Randolph, both Island natives. He was educated through the Oak Bluffs school system and graduated from the Oak Bluffs High School. After graduation he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force for four years and then returned to the Vineyard.

He worked as a painter for awhile and retired from the state as a supervisor for the highway department in 1992.

Ron enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with his grandchildren, especially watching them play baseball. His grandchildren called him Ga.

He was the father of Audrey Jeffers-Mayhew (and her fiancé, Tony Oliver) and Michael Gilman, both of Aquinnah, and the grandfather of Paul Henry and Peyton.

He is also survived by his brother, Otis P. Jeffers Jr. of Hollywood, Fla. and Vineyard Haven; an aunt, Hazel Haskins of Washington and a nephew, Otis P. Jeffers 3rd and his family of Oak Bluffs, and several nieces and nephews.

He found a special friend in Carl Widdiss, whom he affectionately called Bonehead, and liked talking to and spending time with.

A graveside service for the interment of his cremains will be held on Saturday, August 1 at 11 a.m. in the Gay Head Cemetery in Aquinnah, officiated by the Rev. Roger Spinney with military honors provided by the Veterans of Martha’s Vineyard.

Donations may be made in his memory to the Vineyard Nursing Association, P.O. Box 399, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.

Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home in Oak Bluffs.