Ross-Clayton Funeral Home, Inc. | Montgomery, AL

Obituary For Dr. Jefferson Underwood, III

Jefferson Underwood III, MD was born May 15, 1955 in Montgomery, AL. He lived a life filled with a host of accomplishments. A graduate of Alabama State University with a BA in Biology (1977), Jeff went on to obtain his MD degree from Meharry Medical College in 1981. After completing his internship and residency in Internal Medicine in the Georgetown University Program at D.C. General Hospital, Jeff returned to Montgomery to join his father in the practice of Internal Medicine. When his father retired in 1993, Jeff continued the practice until his health required him to reluctantly retire.

During Jeff’s life he was the recipient of many honors which include: The Young Democrats 2005 Physician of the Year and Achievement Award for Community Service in Health, the 2015 International Association of Internal Medicine’s Top Doctor Award, the 2020 Laureate Award recipient from the Alabama Chapter of The American College of Physicians, and the 2020 Samuel Buford Word Award from the Medical Association of the State of Alabama. He was also awarded the Medical Association of the State of Alabama’s Douglas L. Cannon Award for Medical Journalism.

Dr. Underwood’s professional memberships included: The American Medical Association, The National Medical Association, The American College of Physicians, The International Society for Hypertension in Blacks, The Board of Medical Examiners for the State of Alabama, and The Editorial Board for the Journal of Ethnicity. He was also a member of the Montgomery County Medical Society, (in which he served on the Board of Trustees and as President) and the Medical Association of the State of Alabama’s Board of Censors. He was a past President of the Board of Censors and was the first African-American male to serve as President of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama.

Giving back to his community was one of Dr. Underwood’s greatest passions. He served on the board of directors for the Montgomery Area United Way, The Alliance for Responsible Individual Choices for AIDS/HIV, the Montgomery County Health Department Hunt Diabetic Clinic, Father Walter’s Center for Gifted Children and Habitat for Humanity. In addition, he served as a health editor for The Montgomery Advertiser.

On Monday, September 6, 2021, Jeff expired peacefully at home after a six year battle with ALS. He was preceded in death by his son, Blake and parents, Olean Black Underwood and Dr. Jefferson Underwood. He is survived by his wife, Sara, sons, Slayton and Zach and brother, Perrin Underwood. He will be missed by his family, friends, the patients he served and the community.

A graveside service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery on Monday, September 13, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. with Father Manuel Williams, C.R. of Resurrection Catholic Church, officiating. Face mask are required. The service will be live streamed via Ross-Clayton Funeral Home's Facebook page and YouTube. The link for YouTube is: https://youtu.be/sxRb63Zlsh8

Guest Book

HIGH FLIGHT Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of Earth And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings; Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth Of sun-split clouds, – and done a hundred things You have not dreamed of – wheeled and soared and swung High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there, I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung My eager craft through footless halls of air... Up, up the long, delirious burning blue I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace Where never lark, or ever eagle flew – And, while with silent, lifting mind I've trod The high untrespassed sanctity of space, Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.

- na

So hard to grasp the fact that he's not here with us any longer, but I have no doubt that he is at rest with our Heavenly Father. Dr. Underwood was our family Physician for a very long time. He was more than that. He was our friend as well. Praying God will continue to comfort his family and hold on to those sweet memories. Mr. and Mrs. Clemmie Blair

- na

There are no words to say ... except for those you already KNOW.💞 ALL MY LOVE, FOREVER, Lynn Smiley Hampton

- na

Eternal thanks to God for Dr. Jefferson Underwood, III. We shall always remember Dr. Underwood's loving, sincere, steadfast and compassionate care of our loved one, Willie James Walton (my deceased husband), for nearly 20 years. We know that Dr. Underwood's patients were very dear to his heart. We are praying that all of us who grieve for Dr. Underwood will rest in God's comfort continually. ❤️ Grace & peace, Juanita Walton & Family

- na

Praying that God will comfort and strengthen the family through this difficult time. Jeff is already missed, but his memories will forever live on. Memories from the ASU days to him taking care of my mother, my husband and myself for years will forever be in my heart. Barb White-Edwards

- na

To the Underwood family, You all have my deepest sympathy.

- na

William and I will truly miss you Dr. Underwood. As your patients for over 24 years, we have enjoyed the wonderful and compassionate care that you have provided to us over the years. Your superb bedside manners will never ever be forgotten. Rest in peace. Forever grateful to you! William E. and Brenda J. McCoy

- na

To the Jefferson Family:We regret to hear of the passing of our dearly beloved Dr. Underwood.We couldnt've had a better more sincere caring doctor than De Undefwood.When Dr. Underwood retired because of a health related illness.It hurt us so badly because we couldn't do anything to help him.We have missed him since day one of his retirement and now that's he's gone. We feel so lost. Dr Underwood RIP you good and faithful servant,a job well done. from Audrey Harris-Blount,Annie R Harris Anita Harris and the rest of the family.We thank you for taking very good care of my loved ones. Sincerely, the Harris Family

- na

I considered myself blessed to have graced your presence as you patiently and diligently assisted with Dr. Nina Garrison in the care of my father the late Willie James Holt, Sr. We are always prepared to say "Hello!", but not ever "Good-bye!" To your wife Sister Sarah Underwood and the Underwood Family, on behalf of the Holt Family, we are forever grateful and thankful. Pamela and Hannah Holt

- na

Blessings, Love and Condolences. Angela Fleming Seals

- na

I feel blessed to have known you. ASU was an Awesome experience because of our times in Biology classes. Love, Blessings and Condolences to your family. Angela Fleming Seals

- na

Jeff Underwood lll no one couldn't have told me we wouldn't have had a life time to talk about alot of things that took place in our childhood and adulthood. It seems like after our brother Glen left time left with him. So many things I missed having that conversation with you about. Well you and Glen, Mommy Olean and your son can pick up where y'all left off. I am sure we will meet again near those Pearl gates in heaven until then I will pray for and keep in contact with SARAH,ZACH,SLAYTON AND PERRIN. Pray they will fine in there hearts as I have you are with us daily!! Oh if I could turn back the clock. Rest in peace my brother from another mother Olean B.. Jeff you were FABULOUS to my family my mom, sisters and brother!!

- na

Jeff Underwood lll no one couldn't have told me we wouldn't have had a life time to talk about alot of things that took place in our childhood and adulthood. It seems like after our brother Glen left time left with him. So many things I missed having that conversation with you about. Well you and Glen, Mommy Olean and your son can pick up where y'all left off. I am sure we will meet again near those Pearl gates in heaven until then I will pray for and keep in contact with SARAH,ZACH,SLAYTON AND PERRIN. Pray they will fine in there hearts as I have you are with us daily!! Oh if I could turn back the clock. Rest in peace my brother from another mother Olean B.. Jeff you were FABULOUS to my family my mom, sisters and brother!!

- na

My deepest condolences to the family, sending prayers. Jeff was kind hearted and always so friendly. Thank you Jeff for the years of dedication to help others!! R.I.P. Sheila Pryor

- na

Offering sincere condolences to the entire family of Dr. Jefferson Underwood III. Praying for strength, healing and peace during this difficult time. Rosalyn Russell Henderson St. Jude High School, Class of 1975

- na

Sarah, Josh and Slayton, so, so sorry, please accept my prayers and condolences. Dr. Underwood, dad and son only primary doctors I've ever known in Montgomery until Jeff retired last year, over 45 years. May God give you strength when yours is gone, may His grace and mercy carry you on. May the unending love he has for you revive at some point your heart and see you through. "God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever" -Psalm 73:26. Love ❤️❤️you. Lord have mercy. Shalom! Dorsey Nelson

- na

To the family you are in my thoughts and prayers. May Jeff 3 Rest in Power. No only a great physician but a great family man and a great man. Find peace in knowing to be absent in the body is to be present with the Lord. God bless you and find comfort while leaning on the Lord for strength. Michele L Canady

- na

Sara and Zach, Charlie and I love you both an we loved Jeff. He is now without pain and at peace. We pray for God to give you both strength and guidance in the days ahead. We are here for you and will continue to keep you in prayers.

- na

Sara and Zach, Charlie and I have you both in our prayers. We love ya'll with all our hearts and we loved Jeff. He is now without pain and at peace. May Gos fill you both with his awesome grace and power to withstand what you are now going through. We are here for you...

- na

Dr. Jefferson Underwood, III was my family physician and a great friend. He was a mentor to our twin daughters who always wanted to become doctors. Through Jeff's helpful direction, they both are now doctors! Thank you Jeff! Dr. Chandra Williams and Dr. Channa Williams send their love and respect for you and condolences to your family. Rest in Peace! Larry Williams and family

- na

I offer my prayers and condolences to the Underwood Family. May God Be With You All. May he rest in peace. Regina Chase & Family

- na

I have a long history with Dr. Underwood dating back to the time when I was a student at ASU in his mother's dance class. He and his brother would be playing on the campus. He followed the path of his father to become a very fine physician. Blessings upon Sara who I have also watched as a loving wife and mother. Our Prayers are with you. Charlie & Lillie Hardy

- na

My sincere & heartfelt condolences to the Underwood family for your loss. Dr. Underwood was both of my parent's primary physician for many years. They thought the world of him. He was a wonderful & outstanding physician and person. He loved his patients dearly. May he Rest In Peace.🙏

- na

I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, Your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, For I have redeemed you. -Isaiah 44:22~ In the Mercy of Jesus Christ who redeemed you, In the Power of the Holy Spirit who strengthens you, May the Heavenly Host sustain you and the company Angels of Heaven enfold you. Father of all, We pray to thee, For those whom we Love, Yet no longer see....... Grant them thy Peace, And let Mercy abound, Let perpetual light shine upon them, And thy forgiveness surround. AMEN. In Remembrance of a True Renaissance Man, I'll be Missing You....... Ms. Sondra Hill-English Greene

- na

Precious Memories how they linger. Such is my memory of the first time Jeff Underwood came into my office at ASU requesting financial assistance for travel to a Washington, D.C. Student Medical Conference. He talked then about his plans to emulate his father through medical care for the underserved community. He was only a college junior at the time, but over the years, I was proud to see him accomplish his goal. His Dad would be so proud of him. Knowing his Dad as I did, He's smiling, even now. Well done, Jeff. Charles Varner, Jr., former ASU V/P Advancement

- na

An awesome doctor and friend. Brought me into his practice without question and treated my many problems. A true healer. May God bless you all.

- na

I offer my prayers and condolences to Dr. Jefferson Underwood III entire family. Dr. Underwoood's care improved my health physically, emotionally, and mentally. He made it seem like I was speaking with an older brother during each visit; over 18 years in his care. Dr. Underwood III was an AWESOME DOCTOR to me! I thank God for placing Dr. Underwood III in my life's journey. Basil E. McHorne

- na

The St. Jude High School Alumni express sincere condolences to the family of Dr. Jefferson Underwood, Class of 1973. May he rest in peace.

- na

Please accept my most heartfelt sympathy for your loss. My prayers are with the family. I will forever be thankful to Dr. Underwood, he was my doctor for over twenty years. Much love and respect to a wonderful doctor. Martha R Wood

- na

SARAH, PERRIN, AND THE ENTIRE UNDERWOOD FAMILY, I AM SADDENED TO HEAR THAT MY BELOVED DOCTOR HAS PASSED AWAY. I WILL NEVER FORGET THE KIND THINGS THAT HE HAS DONE FOR MY FAMILY AND ME. I AM PRAYING THAT ALMIGHTY GOD WILL GIVE YOU ALL THE STRENGTH TO GO FORWARD. EDITH G. WASHINGTON

- na

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Ross-Clayton Funeral Home, Inc. | Montgomery, AL