Sung Hwan Chong

Sung Hwan Chong, a beloved member of the Manassas community, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on October 18, 1934, in South Korea, Sung Hwan lived a life marked by dedication, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community.

Sung Hwan's early career was spent aboard numerous cargo ships, where he served as a communication officer. His experiences at sea shaped him, instilling a sense of discipline and adventure that would carry through to his later endeavors. After making the journey to the United States, he applied his work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit by running a dry cleaning business with his beloved wife, Uook Hee. Together, they created a warm and welcoming environment for their customers, reflective of Sung Hwan's own nature—kind and always making those around him feel at ease.

A proud veteran, Sung Hwan dedicated over ten years of his life to the Korean Navy. This commitment to service was a cornerstone of his character, influencing the way he engaged with others throughout his life.

In his personal life, Sung Hwan was known for his nurturing spirit. He took great joy in cultivating a variety of vegetables in his garden, sharing the fruits of his labor with loved ones and neighbors alike. His patience and gentleness were hallmarks of his personality; he was known for his ability to remain calm and composed, never losing his temper even in challenging situations.

In the last few years of his life, Sung Hwan faced health challenges, recovering from a head injury two years prior to his passing. Recently, he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, which he faced with characteristic strength and grace.

Sung Hwan is survived by his devoted wife, Uook Hee, his son Jae and daughter-in-law Young, his daughter Eunee Lee and son-in-law Koojin Lee, and his cherished grandchildren: Joseph, Christopher, Grace and Joyce Lee. His legacy of love and kindness will continue to resonate within the hearts of his family and the countless lives he touched throughout his lifetime.

The family invites all those who knew and loved Sung Hwan to remember him with fondness and gratitude for the kindness he shared and the positive impact he made in their lives.