Alta H. Chaffin

Obituary

Alta H. Chaffin, beloved for her kindness, gentle humor, and unwavering love for others, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026. Her life was a testament to resilience, faith, and quiet strength. She carried these qualities with grace throughout her 90 years.

Born on April 27, 1935, in Zela (Nicolas County near Summersville), West Virginia, Alta was the daughter of Winston Asa Hughes and Pruccia Morris Hughes, both of whom preceded her in death. She shared a lifelong closeness with her uncle Ben Hughes and aunt Maggie Hughes, whose love and guidance were deeply meaningful to her. Alta was also preceded in death by her brother, Grandle Hughes, and her sister, Norma Hughes Dooley. She loved her siblings very much and grew up with a strong foundation of faith and family values that shaped her throughout her life.

Alta’s faith was central to her life. As a longtime member of Northside Church of Christ in Newport News and York County, Virginia, she lived her beliefs with sincerity and humility. Her presence in the congregation was steady and dedicated, and she formed many cherished friendships there.

In 1973, Alta moved from Newport News to Poquoson, Virginia, where she quickly grew to love the Bull Island community. She embraced the close‑knit atmosphere, the neighborly spirit, and the sense of belonging that defined life there. Poquoson became a cherished chapter of her life, filled with friendships, laughter, community pride, and many Friday night football games.

She married Bobby Lee Chaffin, Sr., a Military Veteran, and together they shared 55 years of marriage filled with devotion. Alta will be laid to rest beside him at Peninsula Memorial Park in Newport News, Virginia, a final symbol of their lasting bond.

Alta was a devoted mother to her two sons, Bobby Lee Chaffin, Jr. (Yvette) and Brian Kent Chaffin, who remain grateful for her guidance, patience, and unconditional love. She was a proud grandmother to Seth Chaffin, Jacob Chaffin (Faye), Samuel Chaffin (Paula), and Kaitlyn Chaffin, and she cherished her step‑grandchildren Tyler Jones, Whitley Jones Smith, and Kelsey Jones Smith. Her joy grew even deeper with the arrival of her great‑grandchildren, Mila Chaffin and Jacob Chaffin, Jr., and her great step‑grandchild, Emory Smith. Alta also had many nieces—Nancy Hughes Thompson, Mary Hughes Wills, Jeannie Hughes Nichols, Brenda Hughes Jones, Jaqueline Dooley Gibson, Pamela Jo Dooley Higginbotham, and Virginia Carol Dooley Whittington—who were very dear to her.

Alta was known for her good humor, warm remarks, and her special affection for a “good” cup of coffee. She loved making others laugh and found joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially playing bingo, shopping, and social outings.

In her final years, Alta received extraordinary love and companionship from her daughter‑in‑law, Yvette Gosselin Chaffin, who spent nearly every day by her side. Yvette’s devotion ensured that Alta was never alone and was always surrounded by comfort, dignity, and care.

Two years before her passing, Alta moved to Tampa, Florida, where she resided at The Colonnade in the Carrollwood area. There, she formed new friendships with residents and staff, continuing to share her kindness and gentle spirit with everyone she met.

Alta leaves behind a legacy of faith and love of family. Her presence will be deeply missed, and her memory will remain a blessing to all who knew her.

Funeral services and burial will be held at a later date in Virginia at Northside Church of Christ and Peninsula Memorial Park.
Notice will be provided when final arrangements are made.