John Edward "Jack" Havenner

Obituary for John Edward "Jack" Havenner

John Edward "Jack" Havenner, age 97, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 13, 2026, at his home in Swan Point, Maryland. Born on November 10, 1928, in Washington, D.C., he was the son of the late E. Dorothy Stoll (née Dorsey) and Benjamin A. Havenner Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Velma Jack Havenner; his brothers, Benjamin A. Havenner Jr. and Paul Havenner; and his sisters, Marilyn Butterfield and Janet Davis.

Jack proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1946 to 1948, stationed in Yokosuka and Tokyo, Japan. During his service, he earned the World War II Victory Medal, the Army Occupation Medal (Japan), the Good Conduct Medal, and the Sharpshooter M1 Badge. Following his honorable discharge, he became the first in his family to earn a college degree, receiving a Bachelor of Science in Commercial Science from Strayer College.

In the mid-1950s, Jack joined his uncle, Arnold "Nudy" Havenner, at Arundel Supply Corporation. In 1962, he accepted an offer from "Babe" Chaney to come on board to help launch Charles County Concrete and Charles County Sand & Gravel-businesses that later became part of what is now Chaney Enterprises-working alongside Mr. Chaney and Jack Mister. After their sudden deaths in the late 1960s, Jack stepped into a leadership role, serving as Vice President and General Manager for 35 years. Through his steady guidance, deep dedication, exceptional business instinct, and rare ability to connect with people at every level, he helped grow the company into a respected Maryland institution until his retirement in 1994. As an example of his enduring pride and remarkable memory, while gathered with family recently, he recalled the exact drivers' names and the date of the very first load of concrete dispatched at what was then Charles County Concrete.

Jack remained remarkably sharp and engaged throughout his life. He carried an extraordinary memory for details and for people-not just in business, but in life. Even in retirement, he remained deeply involved in his community. He was invited to join the Board of Directors of County First Bank at its inception in 1989 and served as Chairman of the Board for 15 years. He also served as a Trustee for Charles County Community College. At Swan Point, he was often described as a friendship ambassador, always ready to greet and engage with everyone. He continued to enjoy his love of golf as the Senior Golf Group Coordinator, organizing weekly tee times and keeping track of scores.

For his 90th birthday, Jack was awarded a proclamation signed by the Governor of Maryland, which reads in part: "In recognition of your life's extraordinary journey and the wisdom and success you have achieved along the way… in honor of the positive and lasting contribution you have made to Southern Maryland; and as our citizens join with your loving family and friends in expressing our great respect and admiration on behalf of a distinguished and beloved Marylander, we are pleased to confer upon you this Governor's Citation with sincere best wishes and congratulations on the occasion of your 90th birthday."

Nothing brought Jack greater joy than spending time with and speaking about his daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and celebrating the lives and successes of those around him. Always available-ready to talk, to listen, and to offer steady advice and encouragement-his genuine smile, unwavering enthusiasm for life, and constant support made everyone feel known, valued, and truly welcome in his presence.

A devoted member of Christ Church Wayside in Newburg, Maryland, Jack was actively involved in church programs and events. In recent years, as his hearing diminished, he found great enjoyment in reading and remained unwavering in his routines-working out weekly with his trainer, having lunch with friends every Monday in La Plata, enjoying breakfast each Saturday with his buddies at Bubba's restaurant, and attending church on Sundays. His social calendar remained full until the end-an ending marked by the peace and dignity he so richly deserved.

Jack is survived by his daughter, Diana Havenner of Swan Point, with whom he shared an especially close bond; his loving partner, Peggy Schaumburg; his sister, Shirley Havenner Page; his grandchildren, Brittani Croft (Dustin) of Batesburg, South Carolina, and John-Brooks "JB" Havenner Bowling of Lexington, South Carolina; his great-grandchildren, Landon, Weston, and Hayden Croft; and the many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Christ Church of La Plata, 112 Charles Street, La Plata, MD 20646. Following the service, family and friends are invited to a reception at Swan Point Yacht & Country Club, 11550 Swan Point Boulevard, Issue, MD 20645. Interment will be private at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making memorial donations in Jack Havenner's name to Christ Church Wayside, P.O. Box 177, Newburg, MD 20664, or online at www.christchurchwayside.com.