Jeffrey transitioned from this life on July 30, 2013, after an extended illness.

Jeffrey was born on April 9, 1959 to the late Albertha Coburn Betard in Brooklyn, NY. He was raised and nurtured by his Great Uncle & Aunt, the late Norman & Ella Mae Kelly. He earned his high school diploma from Harleyville-Ridgeville High School in 1977.

He joined Elem Missionary Baptist Church at an early age where he accepted the Lord as his Savior.

Jeffrey was a very unique person who was an avid outdoors man. He held various jobs but he truly enjoyed repairing bicycles. He had a passion for music and took delight in playing the drums.

Jeffrey's favorite quotes included:
"I might give out, but never give up"
"The leaning tree is not always the first to fall."

One sister, Shirley Smalls, preceded him in death.

He leaves to celebrate his life: Three sisters, Barbara M. Leary and Geraldine Betard of Brooklyn, NY and Stella Rodriquez of Andrews, SC; two brothers, Ronald Betard of Jesup, GA and Herbert Betard of Long Island, NY; devoted caregivers and cousins, Gail Elmore and Vera Jenkins; supported caregivers: Leon Dublin, Benjamin Pringle, and Deacon Willie Smalls whom Jeffrey fondly referred to as "Uncle Willie Jr." along with his wife "Aunt" Lou Ellen Smalls. He also fondly called his cousin Georgianna Coafo "Aunt". Special nephew Ronald Addison, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loving relatives and caring friends too numerous to name all of them of whom he loved dearly.