Minnesota Vikings Mourn the Passing of Justin Jefferson’s Beloved Mother, Elaine Jefferson
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA — The Minnesota Vikings organization and fans across the NFL are mourning the devastating loss of Elaine Jefferson, the beloved mother of star wide receiver Justin Jefferson, who passed away at age 65 following a sudden stroke earlier this week. The news has sent ripples of sadness throughout the football community, as Elaine was not only a cherished figure in her son’s life but also a respected and deeply loved presence among those who knew her personally.
According to the Jefferson family, Elaine was at her home in St. Rose, Louisiana, when she suffered the stroke. Despite immediate medical intervention and emergency transportation to a nearby hospital, she passed peacefully surrounded by her family on Thursday evening.
Elaine’s passing has been described as “an unimaginable loss” for her three sons — Justin, Jordan, and Rickey Jefferson — all of whom followed her lifelong message of faith, perseverance, and humility.
A Mother’s Legacy
Elaine Jefferson’s story is one of unwavering love and sacrifice. Long before her youngest son became one of the NFL’s brightest stars, she was known in their hometown as the heart of the Jefferson family — a mother who worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for her children and who believed fiercely in their dreams.
“She was my biggest supporter,” Justin Jefferson shared in a brief statement released through the Vikings organization. “Everything I’ve achieved in football and in life started with her strength, her faith, and her love. She taught me to be humble, to work hard, and to always keep family first.”
Elaine was often seen at games wearing her signature purple-and-gold jersey, cheering loudly from the stands or proudly standing alongside her sons after victories. Even when Justin rose to national fame as one of the league’s top receivers, she remained grounded — reminding him that success meant nothing without gratitude and respect.
Friends describe her as “warm, grounded, and full of light.” She was deeply involved in community outreach, helping coordinate youth events and fundraisers for local sports programs. Her faith played a central role in her life; she often volunteered with her church’s women’s ministry, mentoring young mothers and offering support to families in need.
The Football Family Responds
The Minnesota Vikings released an official statement Saturday morning, expressing condolences to the Jefferson family:
“We are heartbroken by the loss of Elaine Jefferson, whose spirit and dedication inspired not only Justin but all of us in the Vikings organization. She was a shining example of love, grace, and perseverance. Our thoughts and prayers are with Justin and his family during this time.”
Head coach Kevin O’Connell spoke about Elaine before the team’s morning practice, noting that her influence on Justin extended beyond football. “When you meet Justin, you immediately sense the humility and drive that come from strong roots,” O’Connell said. “Elaine was that foundation.”
Several of Justin’s teammates — including Kirk Cousins, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson — also shared messages of support. Cousins wrote on social media, “We’re all standing with Justin and his family. A mother’s love is irreplaceable.”
Remembering Elaine
Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in 1960, Elaine Jefferson was raised in a close-knit family where faith and education were central. She worked for years in the education field, balancing her career with raising her three sons after their father’s early passing. Her resilience during those years, according to friends, was “the backbone that built the Jefferson legacy.”
Outside of football, Elaine loved gospel music, gardening, and family gatherings, which she often hosted on Sundays after church. She was known for her laughter, her cooking — especially her jambalaya — and her ability to make everyone feel seen and loved.
A memorial service is being planned in Louisiana, with a celebration of her life to follow in Minneapolis, allowing members of the Vikings community to pay their respects.
A Final Goodbye
In her final days, Elaine reportedly spoke about her pride in her sons and her gratitude for the life she lived. Her passing, though sudden, has brought her family and community together in shared remembrance of her legacy of strength, love, and faith.
As Justin Jefferson takes time away from football to grieve privately, fans and teammates alike have united under one message — #ForElaine — a tribute to the woman who raised one of the NFL’s most admired players and left behind a legacy far greater than the game.
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