Tassin, Jeffrey D.

  • Wednesday, October 5, 2016
Jeffrey Tassin
Jeffrey Tassin

Jeffrey D. Tassin, Ph.D., 64, died at his Chattanooga home on September 27, 2016.

He was a perennial teacher, a vigorous advocate for those struggling to overcome disadvantages, a loving son and brother, and a faithful companion. Jeff was born April 5, 1952 in West Palm Beach, FL. He graduated from Palm Beach High School where he played basketball and developed a lifelong love for tennis. He went on to receive his bachelor's degree from Adelphi University and his master's and doctoral degrees from Georgia Institute of Technology. His dissertation was on "The photodestruction of tryptophan residues in peptides, proteins and the intact ocular lens."

Jeff taught briefly at Furman University and then spent 18 years (1980 – 1998) as a professor at the University of the South where he chaired the Chemistry Department and volunteered as an EMT on the weekends. Relocating to Chattanooga in 2001, Jeff continued his teaching vocation in a second career which was dedicated to service. He became the program manager for Chattanooga Endeavors where he taught various classes to help former offenders develop new narratives for, what he called, their "new lives." His legacy will continue in the many thousands of people who learned to learn from Jeff.

He is survived by his beloved Beth Pettit in Chattanooga, along with his mother, Mildred Tassin in New Smyrna Beach, FL, two brothers, Fred (Sheryll) Tassin, Jr. in Saint Augustine, FL, and Gary (Nancy) Tassin in Wilmington, NC, a sister, Jennifer (Bill) Manke in New Smyrna Beach, FL, and six nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Fred Tassin, Sr.

Continuing his lifelong devotion to science, teaching, and service, Jeff donated his body to research.

There will be an opportunity to share stories about Jeff from 10 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Oct. 15, at Center for Mindful Living, 400 E. Main Stree, Chattanooga.

In lieu of flowers, an act of kindness may be done in Jeff's memory.

Latest Headlines
Obituaries
Lily Moyers O’Neil
Lily Moyers O’Neil
  • 3/27/2024

Lily Moyers O’Neil, 78, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, went home to be with the Lord Jesus on March 26, 2024. She adored her devoted husband, Eddie, her best friend. Lily enjoyed spending time ... more

Eunice Jones
Eunice Jones
  • 3/27/2024

On March 18, 2024, Jesus gently whispered to Mrs. Eunice Jones, “Come to me—come home.” She answered his call and moved to her heavenly home to be reunited with loved ones: parents, Lee and Ruby ... more

Tommy Dewitt Price (Benton)
Tommy Dewitt Price (Benton)
  • 3/27/2024

Tommy Dewitt Price, 88, of Benton, departed this life peacefully on March 23, 2024, at his home. He was born on February 28, 1936, to the late Manuel and Edith Locke Price. In addition ... more