Chewning

Class of 1972

Jeffrey Lynn "Jeff" Chewning (1950-2006)

Jeffrey Lynn Chewning grew up in Fredericksburg, VA and graduated in 1968 from James Monroe High School. He pledged Pi Kappa Phi in the fall of ’68, where his older brother Mike (BU, ’70) was already a fraternity brother. Jeff was initiated into Pi Kap in September of 1969. He was an RA in Old Dorms his second year and roomed in an apartment his third year with Peyton Kash and Scott McIntyre. He lived on The Lawn his 4^th year in the Cracker Box. Jeff took his degree in 1972 from the College at the University of Virginia and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy through the NROTC program. He married his childhood sweetheart and the love of his life, Gaynelle Jett, in 1973 in The Chapel at The University.

Jeff spent eight years on active duty as a Navy P-3 Orion pilot, traveling the world, before transitioning to Reserve drill status. He retired from the Naval Reserve with 25 years service. During his active Navy service, God blessed Jeff by allowing him to become Sarah Virginia Chewning’s father. He was “Mister Mom” for 4 years while doing graduate work at the College of William & Mary in archaeology and flying with the Reserves. Jeff continued his contributions to national security as a systems engineer supporting classified programs for Lockheed Martin in Springfield, VA for the next 21 years.

His passions included Civil War history and the University of Virginia. Jeff loved going to U.Va. football and basketball games and was a member of the Colonnade Club, Rotunda Society, Alderman Society, along with the U.Va. Alumni Association.

Jeff was a devoted member and servant in his hometown Fredericksburg church, Hollywood Church of the Brethren. He delighted in leading a Sunday school class of young adults for many years.

In March 2006, Jeff lost a long and valiant battle with cancer. Throughout his illness, the same quiet strength, confidence and love of Christ Jesus that marked his adult life was an inspiration for all who observed him. He never wavered. Jeff knew his eternal destination and he didn’t fear death. He went through the house singing Great Is Thy Faithfulness the week that he was diagnosed with multiple brain tumors, just a month before his daughter’s wedding. His peace and joy were contagious and were a great gift to his fa

mily and friends. Many friends, family, acquaintances and health care professionals were forever impacted by Jeff’s deep and abiding faith throughout those difficult days and months.

God – Family – Country. Jeff’s priorities were clear and enduring. He was a true brother to his Pi Kap brotherhood. We miss him greatly.

Jeff’s Message to us, his Pi Kap Brothers, – Get your priorities straight, live a Purpose Driven Life, CELEBRATE LIFE and Mostly Have Fun!!!

Presented by: Joseph S. Littleton, III, Class of '72