Commander James Robert Chaffin (Chippy) began life on December 14,1943 in Bronx, New York. He was born to Cleo Chandler who later married Benjamin (Benny) Chaffin. Benny who served in the Army adopted James and raised him as his own. The family grew in size with the addition of James’ sister, Te-sal. James got his first commission from Benny when James was handed the newborn Te-sal and told “You’re on-watch son.” Benny then turned to help his wife into the car. James took this watch seriously. James graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in 1962. He worked at Kollsman Instrument Corp., possibly due to his love of music. He enjoyed classical music and was gifted with the ability to sing and play piano. The family moved to Los Angeles and he worked at Ralph’s grocery store but decided to join the Naval reserve in 1964. He soon joined the Navy as Active duty from 1969 to 1977 serving in the Vietnam War. He returned to reserve duty and worked various jobs while getting his education at local colleges. He received his Associates of Arts from Los Angeles Community college in 1966, Bachelors Arts in History with a minor in music from Cal State University Los Angeles in 1968. He had married and divorced and from that marriage adopted his two children Scott (Scotty) Chaffin and Michelle (Mickey) Tameifuna. He then obtained his teaching credentials from Cal State University Los Angeles in 1988 and began teaching in the Compton and Los Angeles Unified School District. He was again called to Active duty for the Persian Gulf/Desert Storm war. After he returned to the reserves, he continued his education obtaining his Masters of Arts in Education Administration from Cal State University Los Angeles in 1992. He retired from the Navy in 2004 and had received the rank of Commander during his service. Shortly after he retired Los Angeles Unified School District in 2006 to move to Las Vegas to assist with care of his mother Cleo and her second husband Clifford Sheffield (a former Marine). There he became a substitute teacher for the Clark County Unified School District, a test proctor and worked for the Blue and Gold Officer for the United States Naval Academy. He was involved in the JROTC programs of both school districts and enjoyed teaching. He loved to share about his life in the navy and his knowledge of history. Friends and Family often describe him as always smiling, joking and a kind person. He was preceded in death by His mother Cleo Sheffield, father Benjamin Chaffin, Step-father Clifford Sheffield, and niece Denise Glover. He is survived by His Son Scott Chaffin and daughter in law Margarita Chaffin; Daughter Michelle Tameifuna and Son in law Wes Tameifuna Sr; Sister Te-sal Greer and Brother-in-law Billy Greer (former Army); Grandsons Daniel Kinser (currently serving in the Navy), Pastor Wes Tameifuna Jr, and Colin Tameifuna (currently serving in the Army). Also, Nephew Billy Greer Jr., Niece Michelle Cook and Nephew in law Marvin Cook, as well as 1 great Niece, and 6 great Nephews (One who currently serving in the Army). A host family and friends left behind will miss him too. He was called home by God on July 6, 2022 officially ending his proud service to our country. May he rest in peace with our Lord and Savior. Commander James Robert Chaffin Thanks for being on watch.
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