James Elwood Chase of Parkersburg, West Virginia passed away Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Phipps Chase; and his parents, Joseph H. and Mildred M. Chase. He is survived by his brother, Ronald Chase (Barbara) of Richmond, VA; sisters Janet Stoneman and Gloria Whitlow (Odie) of Richmond, VA; children Mark Chase (Janet) and Ann Bergen (John); grandchildren Adam Woods and Molly Bergen; and godsons Joseph B. Stoneman and Brad A. Whitlow.

Jim attended Manchester High School, pursued undergraduate studies at Virginia Tech, and earned his Master's degree in Vocational Education from graduate work at Virginia Tech and Virginia Union University. Jim served in the Army stationed at Fort Benning in Columbus, GA. Dorothy and Jim raised their children in Bon Air, VA. He was a high school teacher for Chesterfield County Public Schools. After retiring, they moved to Dorothy's childhood home in Grayson County.

As a scout leader in Richmond, Jim was awarded the Silver Beaver award by the Boy Scouts of America for his contributions to the Exploring program as Skipper of Sea Scout unit 891. Competing in Flagship Regattas with other regional Sea Scout units was the highlight of his scouting activities.

Jim enjoyed residential design and construction, wood working, photography, and touring Shaker villages. He built Shaker and Victorian style furniture in his shop. He was a longtime lay leader at First Baptist Church in Independence, VA, participating in and providing guidance for renovation and repair teams as well as community missions projects.

A viewing from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.  Friday August 23, 2024, at Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home, 44 Dan Walters Drive, Independence, VA 24348. Interment will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the Isaiah Phipps Cemetery, 1964 Old Bridle Creek Road, Independence, VA 34348.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Isaiah Phipps Cemetery, 96 West Fork Lane, Independence, VA 24348.