Keith Erwin Jefferson was born in Houston, Texas on March 31, 1953, to Aaron Sr. and Myrtle Jefferson. Keith was the youngest of three boys; his brothers are Aaron Jr. and Michael (who were previous graduates of Kashmere). Keith attended Kashmere High School from 1968 to 1971. Keith was an All Houston Independent School District (HISD) and All-District 17-4A tackle. With his likable personality that drew people in, Keith also participated in the Drama Club. He played a role in the production “Androcles and The Lion” in which he received an All-Star Cast Award in a district competition (as the character Ferrovius – “The strong man”). Keith attended Good Samaritan Missionary Baptist Church from the third grade until he moved away for college. Interestingly enough Keith followed in the footsteps of (his cousins) who were also Kashmere athletes and members such as Louis III and Kenneth Blount and also friends Garret, and Ralph Limbrick. Throughout his years of senior high Keith was a member of the Acappella Choir.
Being gifted in singing Keith’s choir director suggested he should audition for a voice scholarship at Houston Christian University formally known as Houston Baptist. With seven football scholarship options to various universities, Keith felt called to Houston Baptist where he was given a vocal scholarship. At the age of 18 while attending college Keith prayed to receive Christ and was born again. Keith’s major in college was Christianity and speech and he received his Bachelor of Science degree in May 1975. In the fall of 1975, Keith entered South Western Baptist Theological Seminary where he received a Master of Divinity in May 1980.
Keith met his lovely wife Deborah in February of 1980 and married her in December of the same year. Today Keith has been married to his wife for 42 years and has four lovely daughters’ one son-in-law, and two grandsons. Throughout his career, he has served as a field representative in the 22nd US Congressional District. Keith has also served in several Pastoral positions, international missions (in Brazil) and as a Missional Strategist for 20 years. Keith has visited 30 countries and has dedicated his life to ministry, the spread of the gospel, and humanitarian work. Today Keith is retired and remains active in missions throughout the world.