Jeffrey John "Jeff" Love

1967 - 2024

Jeffrey John (Jeff) Love, 57, of Arlington, Tennessee, passed away on Monday, April 22, 2024, while on vacation in Barbados celebrating his 4-year anniversary with his beloved wife, Christy.

Born January 8, 1967, in Butte, Montana, Jeff spent his formative years in Dillon, Montana. He graduated from Beaverhead County High School in 1985 and was a proud alumnus of the U.S. Air Force Academy. During his time at the Academy from 1985 to 1989, Jeff was a Collegiate All-American Boxer and earned a coveted pilot slot.

Following graduation, Jeff embarked on a distinguished 22-year military career. During that time, he accumulated over 10,000 flying hours in C-130, T-37, C-32, SII, and C-20 aircraft as a Command Pilot, including 405 combat flying hours. He finished his military career as the commander for a special operations flying squadron, directing and conducting sensitive airlift missions across the globe. Jeff was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Aerial Achievement Medal with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award, Combat Readiness Medal with 7 Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal with 1 Service Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Humanitarian Service Medal.

In 2011, Jeff transitioned to a successful career at FedEx. He flew as a First Officer on the A300, the 767, and the 777. On January 1, 2024, Jeff upgraded to Captain on the 777, a moment of immense pride for him. Jeff thoroughly enjoyed his time flying around the world for FedEx and deeply respected his fellow pilots and flight support personnel.

Jeff's zest for life extended far beyond his professional endeavors. He was known for his deep love of fishing and music, and his unwavering support of the Miami Dolphins. He treasured every moment spent with his family and friends, finding solace and joy in angling at the serene lake on his Tennessee property and strumming his guitar alongside his greatly admired bandmates. Jeff truly lived life to the fullest, while freely giving his love and genuine friendship to everyone he met and enjoying a special connection with animals, especially many family cats and his dog, Grace.

Jeff is preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Carole Love. Jeff is survived by his devoted wife, Christy, loving daughter Ashley (Brad) Plesz, adoring granddaughters McKenzie Rae and Ruby Marie, big brothers Gary (Cathi) Love and Casey (Maris) Love, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, and his first wife, Angie Hatfield.

A private family memorial will be held at a later date to celebrate Jeff's abundant and joyful life. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to Operation Vet NOW, 436 Beatty Road, Monroeville, PA 15146 or online at opvetnow.org.