News Summary
Rock Hill is mourning the loss of D. Jeffery Sligh, a beloved music educator and community leader who passed away on March 8, 2025. At 65, Jeffery left behind a legacy filled with music and dedication, enriched by decades of contributions to education, community service, and public office. His exceptional work as an educator and his community involvement made a lasting impact. Friends and family will gather on March 15 to celebrate his extraordinary life and contributions to music and service in the community.
Rock Hill Mourns the Loss of Beloved Music Educator D. Jeffery Sligh
Rock Hill, South Carolina, is a little dimmer today after the passing of D. Jeffery Sligh, a cherished music educator and community leader, on March 8, 2025. His life, though it ended at the age of 65, was full of joyful music, dedicated service, and heartfelt contributions to the community.
Early Life and Education
Born on February 7, 1960, in Westchester County, New York, Jeffery was the only child of the late David and Lona Sligh. When he was just two years old, his family made the move to Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina. That early upbringing in a family of educators certainly influenced his future path. His father served as a school principal while his mother was an educator and an active church leader.
With a love for music that blossomed in sixth grade, Jeffery began learning to play the piano, a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. He earned his degree in Music Education from the University of South Carolina in Columbia in 1983, followed by graduate studies in music education at Winthrop University. Along the way, he also acquired a Paralegal Certification from the National Academy for Paralegal Studies.
Impressive Career in Public Service
Jeffery’s career was far from ordinary. For nearly three decades, he served under U.S. Congressman John M. Spratt, Jr., taking on various roles including Congressional Liaison, Senior Immigration Specialist, and District Deputy Administrator. His dedication to public service didn’t stop there; in 2011, he stepped up as the Assistant and then District Director for U.S. Congressman Mick Mulvaney. After an impressive 34 years of service in Congress, Jeffery retired in June 2017.
A Heart for Music and Community Service
Alongside his public service, Jeffery also dedicated more than 30 years to enriching lives through music education. He taught music appreciation and hymnology at Clinton College, where he retired in May 2019. His influence stretched beyond the classroom; he served as Minister of Music at various churches, including St. Mary Catholic Church and New Mt. Olivet AME Zion Church. In 1998, he was honored as Teacher of the Year by the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce to recognize his outstanding contributions.
Not only did he make significant contributions in the classroom, but Jeffery was also the Founder and Director of the Rock Hill Ecumenical Chorale. His passion for music earned him even more recognition when the city declared February 24, 2008
Serving His Community
Jeffery was deeply committed to various local organizations, lending his talents and time to boards such as the Catawba Community Mental Health Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of York County, and the Arts Council of York County. He also played an instrumental role in the City of Rock Hill Accommodation Tax and Tourism efforts, demonstrating his commitment to the community at every turn.
A Personal Note
Jeffery is survived by his loving husband Tim Ward and his sisters Arlechia Oakman and Donna Bryant, along with several cherished nieces and nephews. The family has expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Agape Care Group and Amy Harris, RN, for their unwavering support during this difficult time.
Celebration of Life
Friends, family, and community members are invited to celebrate Jeffery’s extraordinary life on March 15, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Oakland Baptist Church, followed by a burial at Rock Hill Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held on March 14, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. at the Oakland Baptist Church sanctuary. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Rock Hill Symphony Orchestra to honor Jeffery’s enduring love for music.
Rock Hill will deeply miss Jeffery Sligh, a man of immense talent, heart, and dedication to both music and community. His legacy will undoubtedly echo in the lives he touched.
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Additional Resources
- Robinson Funeral Home: D. Jeffery Sligh
- Herald Online: Rock Hill Mourns D. Jeffery Sligh
- Wikipedia: Music Education
- Google Search: D. Jeffery Sligh
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Music Education
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