Charles Sigfred Chieng

June 27, 1954 - May 22, 2025

Charles Sigfred Chieng, the beloved 9th Governor of Yap State, passed away peacefully after a life devoted to service, leadership, and family. Born on June 27, 1954, in the village of Bugol, Tomil, Yap State, Federated States of Micronesia, Charles carried the strength of his Yapese and Micronesian roots throughout his life. He was a man whose heart was of the land (“amthun e nam”) and its people—guided every decision he made and every step he took.

Charles’s journey in public service began in 1974 when he entered the University of Guam to study Political Science. He later transferred to the University of the Incarnate Word in Texas, earning dual bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Secondary Education. His leadership blossomed early as President of the Yapese Student Organization and the International Student Association, with recognition in Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities (1981, Vol. 47). Furthering his education, Charles completed his master’s in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of the District of Columbia.

His early career took him to Washington, D.C., where he gained invaluable experience during a two year internship with the D.C. government, followed by 12 years in leadership roles within private industry. But it was a simple moment—spotting two gray hairs one morning—that sparked his return home after over 20 years abroad.

Back in the Federated States of Micronesia in 1994, Charles served as Administrator of Automatic Data Processing for the FSM Department of Finance. In 2003, his people elected him to the Yap State Legislature, where he served with distinction for 12 years. As a visionary leader, he chaired the Resource, Education, and Development Committee and served as Speaker of the 7th Yap State Legislature until his retirement in 2015. During this time, he helped inaugurate the first-ever live coverage of legislative sessions, established the Yap State Trust Fund, advanced critical infrastructure projects, and supported educational and financial initiatives to benefit generations to come.

Though he retired from public office in 2015 to focus on family and home, his deep sense of “amthun e nam” and its people—his heart for the land and its people—never waned. Because of his unwavering commitment and the pressing needs of Yap, he answered the call to serve once again, running successfully for Governor in 2023. Up until his final breath, Charles labored with incredible strength, a strength he often said came only from God above, to serve and protect his homeland.

Charles always imparted wise and loving advice to his children and grandchildren: “Be the best that you can be.” As he prepared to join the Lord, his final words were simple and profound: “My cup is full.” And truly, our cups overflow with the love, legacy, and leadership he leaves behind. Deeply rooted in Yapese culture, Charles embodied the values of taa'fan (respect), tabnaw (family), and gafalen (responsibility). His leadership honored the strength of Yap’s traditional chiefs and the spirit of his people, always prioritizing their safety, well-being, and future.

A man of humor, humility, and deep faith, Charles shared the song “Come Jesus Come” by CeCe Winans with his loved ones during his battle with cancer. It was his testimony song—a heartfelt reassurance of his peace, his hope, and the eternal home he knew awaited him.

Charles is survived by his devoted wife, Fe Chieng, and his five loving children: John Thigthen, Julie Wureng, Maxine Gilliyan, Jennifer Dugwen, and Maxmillian Fir. He leaves behind a legacy of servant leadership, a vision for progress, and a heart forever intertwined with the people of Yap.

A funeral service for Charles will be held Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Bill Eisenhour Funeral Home, 8805 NE 23rd Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73141, followed by a visitation from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.