James E.
Chaffin, 33rd Degree
Treasurer | Valley of Ocala
Treasurer of the Valley of Ocala since May 1, 2024. U.S. Air Force veteran (1960-1964) and 36-year IBM employee. Coroneted 33rd Degree Inspector General Honorary in 2023.
Personal background
James E. Chaffin was born in Maple Park, Illinois on April 1, 1942. He graduated from West Aurora High School in 1960. He married Judy A. DeGrasse in 1972. They have one son and three grandsons.
Military service
Chaffin enlisted in the United States Air Force and served from September 1960 through August 1964. Following basic training in Texas and weapons systems instruction in Colorado, he was stationed at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base near Marquette, Michigan, where he helped maintain the Fire Control Systems and the Weapons Systems on the B-52H Stratofortress Bombers.
Professional career
Chaffin spent 36 years with International Business Machines (IBM), initially working as a Customer Engineer for office products before transitioning into Education Services as a Course Developer. He lived in Bristol, Illinois until relocating to Marietta, Georgia in 1989, and subsequently moved to The Villages, Florida following his retirement in 2004.
Masonic career
Chaffin's Masonic journey began in 1970. He progressed through the three degrees within three months and received his 50-year pin in 2020. Within the Scottish Rite, he has contributed to degree ritual maintenance and presentations. In 2015 he attained the rank of Knight Commander of the Court of Honor, advancing to Inspector General Honorary, 33rd Degree, in 2023. On May 1, 2024, he was appointed Treasurer of the Valley of Ocala.
Community service
Chaffin served as Secretary of The Villages Shrine Club for eight years and was recognized as Shriner of the Year in 2015 and 2020 for his work supporting Shriners Children's Florida.