CHALKLEY, Gregory B., 49, was born November 28, 1961 in Richmond, Va. In tribute to Greg, his closest childhood friend of over 40 years, Stuart Hubbard, wrote: "Greg went to be with the Lord on September 8, 2011. Greg Chalkley was a proud Hanover native son with a passion and love for his wife and step children, family, friends, God and certainly not least of all, his country. Greg recently changed his last name to McCracken to show his love for his maternal grandmother. Greg loved his grandmother dearly and she was a positive, lasting influence in Greg's life. Greg would light up a room with his smile, sparkling blue eyes, great sense of humor and wonderful laugh. Greg always knew just what to say to make you feel good about yourself. He was a graduate of Lee-Davis High School, and also attended VCU and Radford College. Greg went on to join the Marines, and he was appointed as the platoon leader for his outstanding leadership abilities. To say that Greg was a proud Marine would be an understatement. I think that COURAGE, PRIDE, HONOR & LOVE are the words that best describe Greg. Greg's wife, Elizabeth, and step children, Alex and Lauren, were the most important thing in Greg's life. Elizabeth was the love of Greg's life and he adored her. Greg's other passions included physical fitness, pumping iron in the gym, running, boxing, mixed martial arts, music, the outdoors, football, baseball, Key West (where he was married), the ocean, Florida, reading, religion, politics, camping and good conversation with friends. A true 'Florida Boy', Greg's favorite teams were the Florida Marlins and the Miami Dolphins." He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, his stepdaughter & stepson, Lauren and Alex; his father and mother; two brothers; sisters-in-law and several nieces and nephews; as well as his wife's family. Greg will be dearly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him." A memorial service will be held for Greg at Bethel Baptist Church, located at 1100 Huguenot Springs Rd. in Midlothian, Va. on September 23, 2011 at 2 p.m. (1400).
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
