Lana Jillette (Oxendine) Chavis (74) of Pembroke, North Carolina very well known as Jill went home to be with her Lord and Savior on October 23, 2025 surrounded by the love of her family after a long and courageous battle with lung cancer. Though her time on this earth has come to a close, her love, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of everyone who was blessed to know her.

Jill was a devoted wife to Ponce DeLeon Chavis Jr “Leon”, a proud and loving mother to her son Ponce DeLeon Chavis III “Trae”, wife (Bridget Chavis) and an adoring grandmother to her beautiful granddaughter Jadyn Brianne Chavis, who brought endless joy to her life. Her family was her greatest treasure, and she loved them with her whole heart. There was never a doubt that they were her purpose and her pride.

For more than 30 years, Jill faithfully served at Berea Baptist Church, pouring her heart into teaching Sunday School, leading Vacation Bible School, and serving as church secretary. Her gentle voice, steady presence, and deep love for God touched the lives of countless children and families. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued, and her faith was not something she just spoke about—it was how she lived every single day.

Even during her five-year journey with lung cancer, Jill never lost her faith or her smile. She faced each day with courage, grace, and gratitude, trusting in God’s plan and finding joy in the small moments—laughing with her granddaughter, sharing stories with her family, and praying with friends who came to visit.

Jill’s life was a reflection of one of her favorite verses, Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Her strength was quiet but unshakable, her love constant and unconditional, and her faith the foundation of all she did.

Jill is preceded in death by her father, Simeon Oxendine and her mother, Katherine Delores Oxendine.

She is survived by her husband, Ponce DeLeon Chavis Jr “Leon”; a son, Ponce DeLeon Chavis III “Trae” and a daughter in-law, Bridget Chavis.  One brother, Rodney Oxendine and a sister in-law, Janet Oxendine, one special granddaughter, Jadyn Brianne Chavis, a special friend Rhonda McDowell and many cousins, nephews, nieces and friends. 

She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace, rejoicing in the presence of her Savior and free from pain.