04/29/2025
In Memoriam: Dr. Lynn M. Jeffries, PT, DPT, PhD
With deep sorrow, the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy announces the passing of Dr. Lynn M. Jeffries on April 23, 2025. Lynn passed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of extraordinary service, leadership, and compassion that has profoundly shaped our profession and community.
A servant leader in the truest sense, Lynn devoted 28 years to the advancement of pediatric physical therapy as an educator, clinician, researcher, mentor, and friend. Her unwavering dedication touched countless lives, and her work continues to reverberate through the generations of professionals she inspired.
Lynn’s leadership within APTA Pediatrics was exemplary. She served with distinction as Vice President of the Academy and Chair of the Practice Committee, always bringing clarity, vision, and purpose to her roles. A passionate advocate for our profession, she championed initiatives that strengthened membership engagement, supported clinical excellence, and drove forward the mission of APTA Pediatrics.
Throughout her career, Lynn received numerous honors that reflected the depth and breadth of her impact. She was a recipient of the Lucy Blair Service Award, one of APTA’s highest honors for exceptional and sustained service to the association and profession. In 2024, she was honored with the APTA Humanitarian Award, recognizing her extraordinary commitment to improving the lives of others through physical therapy. That same year, she received the Jeanne Fischer Distinguished Mentorship Award from APTA Pediatrics, celebrating her sustained, altruistic mentorship and dedication to developing future leaders in the field. These accolades represent not only her professional excellence but also the deep respect and admiration she earned across the physical therapy community.
A respected researcher, Lynn authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and book chapters. Her work on projects such as Move & PLAY, PT COUNTS, and On Track helped shape best practices in pediatric care. Her excellence was recognized with the 2020 Toby Long Award for outstanding research article in Pediatric Physical Therapy.
In every role she held, Lynn led with grace, intelligence, and humility. Her passion, wisdom, and kindness were constants in a career marked by excellence. Her legacy—as a clinician, scholar, leader, and human being—will continue to guide and inspire us for years to come.
We extend our deepest condolences to Lynn’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. The Academy honors her memory and invites our members to join us in celebrating the life and contributions of Dr. Lynn Jeffries—a dedicated member, a cherished mentor, and a beloved colleague.
