McHenry Times

State Representative Joe Sosnowski paid tribute to former Representative Chuck Jefferson in a Facebook post on January 14, describing him as "dedicated to the community and those he served for so many years." Jefferson, who was a member of the Illinois House from 2001 to 2014, passed away on January 10.

"It's with heavy hearts we hear of the loss of an instrumental local leader," said Sosnowski, according to Facebook. "Former State Representative Chuck Jefferson was dedicated to the community and those he served for so many years. I had the honor to serve with him for several years in the General Assembly, and he will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and loved ones."

According to WREX.com, Charles E. Jefferson died at the age of 79. Before his tenure in the Illinois House of Representatives, Jefferson served on the Winnebago County Board for several years. In Rockford, a section of Winnebago Street near the Booker Washington Center bears his name in recognition of his contributions. During his time in the legislature, Jefferson played a significant role in bringing the Hard Rock Casino to Rockford.

Screenshot of State Representative Joe Sosnowski's Jan. 14 Facebook post | State Representative Joe Sosnowski's Facebook page

Jefferson was born on March 31, 1945, in Waco, Texas. He participated actively in civic boards and was a member of Providence Baptist Church. As per his biography with the Illinois General Assembly, he is survived by three sons: Carl, Curtis, and Charles Jr.

WIFR reports that Jefferson served as Assistant Majority Leader during his time in the Illinois House of Representatives until July 2014. A U.S. Army veteran, he held the rank of sergeant in the military police. In 2020, a portion of Winnebago Street from Morgan to Montague was dedicated as Chuck Jefferson Way by the African American Resource Center.

WIFR also spoke with Representative Maurice West, who currently holds Illinois House District 67—a position previously held by Jefferson from 2001 to 2014. West said: "He was a trailblazer. Little did I know that...18, 19 years later, I was going to follow in his footsteps. I remember him telling me, 'Maurice, the more you put in it, the higher the chance you’ll win it,' and that stuck with me. It’s been with me. And I’m going to miss him greatly."

Sosnowski has represented Illinois since being elected to the Illinois General Assembly in 2010 and now represents the 69th District. His political career began with service on the DeKalb City Council before moving to Rockford where he served as First Ward Alderman from 2005-2010. According to his official biography, he is a graduate of Northern Illinois University.