John Millard Shavis

John Millard Shavis John Millard Shavis of Charlottesville, passed away on Tuesday, October 26, 2010, at a local health care facility. He was 87.

Born in South Clinchfield, Virginia, he was the youngest of four children born to Charles and Grace Shavis. He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Garnett and Lois; and a brother, Charles.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Ann Shavis of Charlottesville; a son, Mike Shavis and his wife, Wanda; a daughter, Laura Shavis of Troy, Virginia; a grandson, Brad of McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey; a step-granddaughter, Audra Hancock of Free Union, Virginia; and two nephews and one niece.

John served with the Army Combat Engineers in the Burma campaign of World War II, where he received several medals. After returning to the States, he attended the University of Georgia where he earned a BS degree in Forestry. Upon graduation, he moved to Charlottesville to begin a 35 year career with the Virginia Division of Forestry, where he served as Assistant District Forester of Region 3 and District Management Chief.

John was a life member of the American Legion Post 74 La Societe des 40 & 8. He was a charter/life member of the Seminole Trail Volunteer Fire Department where he served in the rank of Lieutenant. He was an avid reader, was captivated by maps and loved the great outdoors. He particularly enjoyed his membership with the Skidmore Hunt Club where he reveled in the quiet solitude of the mountains while at the same time delighted in exchanging stories with his fellow members.

A visitation will be held from 4 until 5 p.m. Saturday, October 30, 2010, at the Hill and Wood Funeral Home for those persons wishing to share their love of John with those closest to him.

A private interment service will be held at Riverview Cemetery in Charlottesville.

The family suggests that donations be made in his honor to the Seminole Trail Volunteer Fire Department, Charlottesville/Albemarle Rescue Squad or other charity of your choice.

Friends may sign the guest book at www.hillandwood.com.



This obituary was originally published in the Daily Progress.