Edward G. Jefferson, chairman and CEO of DuPont from 1981 to 1986, died here today at the age of 84.  He served on the DuPont Board of Directors from 1973 until 1992.

"Ed Jefferson exemplified the importance our company places on science, and his leadership and insights throughout his career at DuPont helped shape the direction our company is taking today," said Charles O. Holliday, Jr., DuPont Chairman and CEO.  "We were greatly enriched by knowing and working with him at DuPont." 

"Ed's accomplishments at DuPont were numerous, but he will be long remembered for identifying the importance that biotechnology would play in the future growth of the company.  He will also be remembered for the importance he placed on recognizing and preserving our company's history for the benefit of future leaders and others in business," Holliday said.

Jefferson was born in London, England, served in the British Royal Artillery in World War II, participating in the Normandy invasion in 1944.  He graduated from King's College, University of London, with first-class honors in chemistry, where he also earned a doctoral degree.

Jefferson joined DuPont in 1951 at the Belle Works near Charleston, W.Va.  In 1960 he transferred to Wilmington where he held a number of management and executive positions in research and development.  In 1973, he was appointed a director, senior vice president and member of the company's Executive Committee.  In 1978 Jefferson was given responsibility for the coordination and direction of all research and development activities for the company.  He was named president and chief operating officer on Jan. 1, 1980, and became chairman and chief executive officer on May 1, 1981.  He retired from DuPont as chairman and chief executive officer on May 5, 1986.

DuPont is a science company.  Founded in 1802, DuPont puts science to work by creating sustainable solutions essential to a better, safer, healthier life for people everywhere.  Operating in more than 70 countries, DuPont offers a wide range of innovative products and services for markets including agriculture, nutrition, electronics, communications, safety and protection, home and construction, transportation and apparel.

2/9/06