Dr. John Paul Mefford

Dr. John P. Mefford, of Niles, 85, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2020, at Hallmark Living in Benton Harbor. Memorial contributions may be made to Portage Prairie United Methodist Church, 2450 Orange Rd, Niles, MI 49120. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.swemchapel.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Swem Chapel & Cremation Services. John was born on June 30, 1934, to Rev. May & Emily Adeline (Plummer) Mefford in Paris, KY. He graduated from Magnolia High School in New Martinsviile, WV. He then continued his education at Anderson University where he earned his Bachelors in Arts and then a Master’s in Education. This is where he met the love of his life Jacquelyn Becraft whom he married on July 6, 1957, in Mt. Sterling, KY, at the First Church of God. He also earned his Ed. D. at Indiana University- Bloomington. Through the University, he was sent to South Bend, IN to start the Special Education program at Indiana University- South Bend, where he was the head of the department for over 25 years. John enjoyed hunting, boating, fishing and riding his motor cycle. He also liked to travel up north to Baldwin with his family where they would ride their snow mobiles. Most of all, he loved to spend his time with his family. John is survived by his wife Jacquelyn Mefford of 62 years; sons, John Michael (Pamela) Mefford of Elkhart and Gregory Scott Mefford of Niles; grandchildren, Brookelin Mefford and Kristopher-Gregory Mefford; and sister Harolyn Temple and Marilyn LaRocco. John was preceded in death by his parents.