Jeffrey Robert McVey Sr., known to his loved ones as Jeff, departed this world for the Undiscovered Country on December 9, 2023, at the age of 71 in Yuma, Arizona.  He was born on April 22, 1952, in Phoenix, Arizona.  Jeff was a talented musician and storyteller with a deep passion for music, history, fishing, and cooking.

In the 70's and 80's, Jeff owned Jeff's Place, a popular bar and music venue in Yuma where he brought live music and entertainment to the community.  Music and food were a medium for expressing his creative soul, and his recipes and dishes have become beloved favorites among his family.  Jeff formed long-lasting relationships with many musicians while playing in local bands such as The Decades, Balls, Saddle Tramp, The Agitators, Gruuve Masters, and the Journey of Faith Worship Team.  He was extremely proud to be a Yuma High School Criminal and deeply cherished the friendships and reunions with his class.  Most recently the Jail Break Monday lunch group was a source of kindness, joy, and support in his final days.

Jeff will be remembered for his intellect, wit, and engaging conversations.  His friends and Family will miss his lively personality and his ability to captivate others with his "Big" stories and all their embellishments.  He leaves behind a legacy of music, great stories, and culinary delights that will be cherished by those who knew him.

Jeff attended OC Johnson Elementary School, 4th Ave. Jr. High School and Yuma High School for his primary and secondary education.  He then went on to pursue higher education at Northern Arizona University.

In addition to his musical career, Jeff worked in the world of advertising, both print and radio, utilizing his creativity to contribute to the industry.  Outside of his professional life, he enjoyed fishing, shooting, brokering a great deal/trade, and cooking.

Jeff is survived by his son, Jeffrey McVey Jr., his daughter Summer Mellon, son-in-law Cory Mellon, and his granddaughters, Emmaline and Lorelei Mellon.  He is also survived by his ex-wife, Paula McVey, and his brother, John McVey, sister-in-law, Kay McVey, and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Orval and Lawanda McVey, his sister, Marilyn Davis, and brother-in-law, Bill Davis.

Jeff will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the community he touched with his music, stories, and culinary creations.  He lived life on his own terms and deeply loved those who accepted and loved him as he was.  His memory will live on through the love and joy he brought into the lives of others.

A memorial service to celebrate Jeff's life will be held at 11 am on January 6, 2024, at Journey Church at 3225 E County 14th Street in Yuma, Arizona.  The arrangements are being handled by Desert Valley Mortuary in Somerton, Arizona.