Jefferson Prendergast, 74, of Milton, died March 8 at Massachusetts General Hospital after a lifelong battle with diabetes.
Born in St. Mary, Jamaica, on Dec. 31, 1935 to parents Orinthia Barker and Joseph Abdul, he had a brilliant mind and possessed a sharp sense of humor.
As a teenager, Mr. Prendergast’s interest as an aeronautics mechanic led him to enroll in a trade school where he soon discovered he was more passionate about work as an auto mechanic. After arriving in the United States in December 1968, he became a specialist as a Volkswagen mechanic, earning special awards and excelling in his field.
Gifted with his hands, he could build anything. He was an excellent cook and enjoyed spending time with family and friends over a great meal and good reggae music.
He is survived by his wife, Imogene; his children, Karl Lyn, Everett Lyn, Marcia Riedel (Chris), Yvonne Prendergast-Deebrah, Jeff Andrew Prendergast (Glenda), Richard Prendergast (Bessie), Monica Prendergast (Joe) and Janice Taylor (Daythan); his grandchildren, Carlos, Joei, Khareem, Karl, Tyronnie, Richard Jr., Andre, Kyle, Richard, Keith, Monisha, Asaad, Rashaad, Joseph, Ryan, Randall, Dillon, Rose, Rachel, Hunter and Rhianna; his great-grandchildren, Imani, Nubia, Marques and Jadyn; a brother, George Abdul; and a host of family and friends.
Funeral services were held in Mattapan Baptist Church of Milton on March 20.
Donations be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, 770 Dedham St., Canton, MA 02021.
Arrangements were by the Dolan Funeral Home.