Donald Cowan Chadwick, 88, of Jacksboro, TN, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, love, and faith that deeply impacted all who knew him.

Don was born on June 20, 1936, in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, to Fred and Emma (Blevins) Chadwick. The second of nine children, he grew up in a close-knit family rooted in hard work and humor. At 19, Don enlisted in the United States Navy, beginning a distinguished career that spanned over two decades. He served on multiple ships and bases across three continents, including memorable years in Scotland and Morocco. Don retired from active duty in 1973 as a Chief Petty Officer First Class and was transferred to the Navy Reserve after 20 years of service. He retired fully from the Navy in 1984 as a Mess Management Specialist First Class, receiving numerous honors, including the Navy Good Conduct Award in 1965.

In 1975, Don relocated his family to Chicago to attend the Moody Bible Institute, where he worked in the Student Dining Room and maintenance department while pursuing a diploma in Christian Education. He received a Teacher’s Diploma from Moody in 1978 and was licensed to preach by Maplewood Bible Baptist Church in October 1977. After completing his studies, he continued to work at Moody before settling in Jacksboro, TN. He was ordained by Mt. Paran Baptist Church in 1982.

Don’s love for learning and service continued throughout his life. In 1984, he completed a diploma in Automotive Mechanics from the Tennessee State Board of Regents, reflecting his skill and passion as a mechanic. In 2005, he earned a Bachelor of Christian Ministry from Christian Bible College and Seminary. Two years later, in 2007, he earned a Doctor of Theology in Christian Counseling and certification as a Christian Counseling Therapist from the same institution.

During his retirement, Don served his community in numerous capacities. He was an active member of Cedar Hill Baptist Church, where his wisdom and encouragement inspired many. He led the Campbell County Honor Guard as Commander for 20 years, honoring fellow veterans, and served as a Reserve Sheriff’s Deputy, dedicated to protecting his community. Additionally, he was a proud member of the Tennessee Defense Force until his discharge in 1991.

A man of many talents, Don excelled in music, playing a wide variety of stringed instruments with skill and passion. He loved collecting guns and pocket knives, each with a story he delighted in sharing. Don was also a skilled mechanic – there wasn’t anything that he couldn’t fix. Above all, he was a gifted storyteller, captivating others with his humor and heartfelt tales of his life’s adventures. Most importantly, he was devoted to sharing how his life had been transformed by his faith in Jesus Christ.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Emma Chadwick, and siblings Odeva Bailey, Ethel Jean Chadwick, Thelma Louise Huey, David Glenn Chadwick, and Freda Faye Daniels. Also preceded in death by Jan’s beloved children: Melissa Reneé Medley, Barry Lynn Bailey and Donna Bailey, her daughter-in-law.

He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Jan; his children, Donna Louise (Chadwick) Martin (Philip) of Tulsa, OK; Donald Calvin Chadwick of Powell, TN; and Dana Tyrone Chadwick (Jeannette-“DeeDee”) of Jacksboro, TN; Jan’s children, Gregory Wayne Bailey and Randy Joel Bailey, and siblings Hazel Dean Taylor, James Elmer Chadwick, Elizabeth Malisa Brown, and Wanda Sue Schafer; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his kindness, humor, and generosity.


A celebration of Don’s life will be held at Cedar Hill Baptist Church on Sunday January 19th at 5:00 PM, with viewing from 2:00-5:00 PM prior to funeral service. We will meet at 10:15 AM on Monday, January 20th at Martin Wilson Funeral Home for the funeral procession to Powell Valley Cemetery for a 11:00 AM service. Don’s legacy of love, service, joy, and faith will endure in the hearts of all who knew him. Though his laughter and stories will be dearly missed, his impact will continue on for generations to come. 

The family has entrusted the care of Donald Cowan Chadwick to Martin Wilson Funeral Home “Where Families Matter Most.”

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