Jeffrey M. Ahearn

Jeffrey Michael Ahearn, 37, of Richmond, died peacefully at home Oct. 5, 2005, after a courageous, yearlong battle with leukemia.

He is loved and survived by his wife, Anne Bruce Baskerville Ahearn, his two children, Emma and George, his mother, Mary McMahon Ahearn of Roanoke, Va., and countless family and friends.

Jeff was born in New York City to Mary and Bertram Gibson Ahearn. The family moved often, and Jeff had fond memories of childhood days spent in Boston, Cleveland, Providence, Pittsburg, Syracuse and Washington, D.C., They eventually landed in Roanoke and remained there after his father's sudden death.

Jeff graduated from North Cross School and Emory and Henry College, where he made lifelong friends. He then spent three years in Jackson Hole, Wyo., where he met Anne Bruce and spent many hours fly fishing and skiing.

Upon moving to Richmond, Jeff began a 10-year career in commercial real estate, most recently serving as a Director at Daniel Corporation. He was a member of the Commonwealth Club.

Jeff loved his life. He relished his career and respected and admired his co-workers, who became close friends. He cherished time spent with Anne Bruce, Emma and George. He was a passionate fly fisherman and had some of his happiest moments fishing streams around Charlottesville and Roanoke, and in Montana, Wyo., Idaho, Utah and Washington.

He enjoyed everyone he met and was a devoted friend, husband, father and son. Over the last year, his courage, graceful humility and strength inspired friends and family across miles. He never took anything for granted. He was content, a man at peace with himself and his life.

All friends are welcome for a celebration of Jeff's life at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, 2005, at St. Stephen's Episcopal. Donations may be made in Jeff's honor to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at 5511 Staples Mill Road 202-B, Richmond, 23228.