Basil Jennings, 101 of Abingdon, VA passed away peacefully on October 26, 2020. He formerly lived in Wise, VA prior to moving to Abingdon. He was a graduate of VA Tech and did graduate work in social work at VCU. He taught school for a few years after completing his military service and then Basil was director of Social Services for Wise County for 34 years.
Basil was also a US Army veteran. He served in five major campaigns in the European theater during WW II. He was the recipient of numerous medals including five bronze stars. He later retired from the US Army reserves.
Basil is survived by his wife of 45 years, Diane Garber Jennings and his three children, BG Jennings, Jr, Jennifer Kelly (Pat), Susan Smith (Gary), 5 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Basil was preceded in death by his parents, Sylvester and Mattie Jennings as well as his eight siblings.
His hobbies included traveling, various sports, his flower gardens, reading and woodworking. He especially enjoyed making miniature dollhouses for his great-granddaughters and miniature car racetracks and garages for grandsons and great-grandsons.
Due to the Corona virus, the service will be private for the family. Service will be conducted by Rev. Mike Winters of Wise Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Wise Baptist Church (PO Box 777 Wise, VA 24293) or Abingdon United Methodist Church (101 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210) or the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made to the Jennings family at www.eastlawnkingsport.com. East Lawn Funeral Home and Memorial Park has the honor of serving the Jennings family.
