Norma Jean Johnston Chafin

Our mother, Norma Jean Johnston Chafin, 89 of Pearisburg, VA, went to be with the Lord on February 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born November 26,1936 in Radford, VA, she was the daughter of the late Luther Paul and Anna Farmer Johnston.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Harold Eugene Chafin; her daughter, Teri Eppling; her grandson, Geoffrey Allen; her sister, Sallie J. Moore and husband James A. Moore and brother-in-law Clinton Johnston.

Those left to cherish her love, faith and memory include her three surviving children: Sheree Williams (Mike), Steve Chafin (Cindy), Janet Millirons (Morgan) and son-in-law Ricky Eppling. She is also survived by nine grandchildren: Josh Allen, Seth Davis (Venessa), Adam Eppling (Beth), Shay Davis, Andrew Eppling (Michele), Anna Morgan Kirk (Devin), Kyle Chafin (Beth), Elise Chafin (Justin), Eli Millirons (Alea); as well as 15 great-grandchildren: Nolan, Miles, Sylas, Sadie, Lyla, Stella, Oliver, Stockton, Libby, Banks, Colby, Brewer, Elly Jean, Draper and Lainey. In the last moments of her life, she reminded her family and friends of one more great-grandchild- a baby girl on the way.

She is also survived by her sister, Brenda Mutter (Melvin); former daughter-in-law Sandra Lucas; sister-in-law Carolyn Johnston and numerous nieces and nephews.

Norma Jean was raised on the family farm in Eggleston, VA and graduated from Eggleston High School in 1954. She and Harold made their home in Pearisburg, where they raised their four children and later spent their golden years faithfully attending their children’s and grandchildren’s many activities.

A devoted member of the First United Methodist Church since 1965, Norma sang in the church choir.

She will be remembered for her famous boiled custard and brownies, her years as a dedicated employee of Celanese, her love of card games with friends and family, and her joy in hosting family gatherings. After her retirement, she enjoyed her card-playing friends – Dottie Perdue, Ann Mulheren and Shirley Stafford, sharing fond memories around the table. She cherished her friendship with her lifelong friend and neighbor, Amy Lucas.

A special blessing to Norma and to her entire family was her grandson, Josh, who dedicated nearly three years of his time as her primary caregiver.

Her life was a testament to faith, family and unwavering love, and she leaves behind a legacy that will continue for generations to come.

Funeral services will be held at 6:00 pm on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Pearisburg First United Methodist Church, 1101 Valleyview Drive, Pearisburg, VA with Pastor Clay Holt officiating. The family will receive friends from 4:30 pm until 6:00 pm.

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.