Michael Jefferson

March 30, 1981 – August 4, 2025

Michael Jefferson, 44, of Bristol, Connecticut, left this Earth on August 4, 2025. Born on March 30, 1981, to Patricia and Mark Jefferson, Mike lived a life full of wonder, kindness, and creativity.

From an early age, Mike was a proud Boy Scout and it ignited his love of the outdoors. He spent countless hours exploring his neighborhood woods. That childhood love of nature blossomed into his career when he founded AshLeaf Landscaping, a business named after his daughters, Ashlynn and Leaf. For Mike, clients quickly became friends, drawn to his generous spirit, authenticity, and easy smile.

Mike lived his life with a rare combination of playfulness and hard work. He was an adventurer, a lover of history and books, a connoisseur of good music, and a bit of a mad scientist in the kitchen. He perfected sourdough, stuffed peppers, and homemade mead, and delighted in sharing his creations-from mugwort beer to pickled vegetables-with anyone lucky enough to receive them.

Mike never met a stranger. Whether through work, community, or chance encounters, he made friends everywhere he went. His warm hugs, bright smile, and joyful wave were his signature welcome, and his zest for life was contagious.

He is survived by the lights of his life-his daughters, Ashlynn and Leaf-and his best friend and partner of 15 years, Heidi Maguire. He also leaves behind his brother, Stephen Jefferson and fiancée Heather Eckstrom, stepsons Evan and Connor Maguire, and his nephew Samson Blum. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Bethany.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, August 15, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Bristol Historical Society, 98 Summer Street, Bristol, CT.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mike's memory can be made to The Bristol Historical Society.

Mike's legacy is one of joy, kindness, and the reminder to live life with curiosity, courage, and an open heart. He will be deeply missed.