Jeffrey Bruce "Jeff" Chinlund

1956 - 2025

Jeffery Bruce "Jeff" Chinlund Greenville - Jeffrey Bruce Chinlund, affectionately known to many as Jeff, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, in Greenville, North Carolina, at the age of 69. A devoted father, grandfather, and cherished friend, Jeff's warmth and generosity touched every person who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born on April 7, 1956, in Fairfield, California, he grew up in North Carolina. He graduated from R.J. Reynolds High School in Winston-Salem before attending East Carolina University in Greenville, where he earned his degree in 1979. Jeff worked for the North Carolina Department of Transportation for over 30 years, where he developed many lifelong friendships and memories across the state.

Jeff's life was one defined by curiosity, kindness, and an enduring love of adventure. He never missed an opportunity to make a new friend or try something new, always greeting each day with a smile and an open heart. Among his greatest passions were aviation and travel. He was the proud pilot and meticulous restorer of his beloved antique Piper J-3 Cub aircraft, an endeavor he shared with some of his closest friends. As a devoted member of the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Jeff found immense joy in connecting with fellow enthusiasts and supporting programs that inspired the next generation of pilots.

Jeff is preceded in death by his parents Harvey B. Chinlund and Joyce M. Chinlund; he is survived by his three children, Andrew Chinlund, Adam Chinlund, and Nicole Chinlund Shank; his siblings, Bradford M. Chinlund, and Harvey B. Chinlund Jr., and Julie A. Chinlund; three granddaughters, Piper Chinlund, Adeline Shank, and Ava Jane Chinlund; three grandsons, Harvey B. Chinlund III, Beckett Shank, Cooper Shank, and countless friends who became like family.

The family would like to thank all of the wonderful staff at ECU Hematology and Oncology as well as all of the staff and doctors at Physician's East for their compassion during Jeff's courageous battle with cancer.

A Celebration of Jeff's Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the EAA Young Eagles program, an organization that reflects Jeff's passion for flight and mentorship.

Arrangements by Smith Funeral Service & Crematory, Greenville. Online condolences may be expressed at www.smithfcs.com.