January 17, 2024, 86, Goldsboro —
Dr. Opey Dew Jeanes passed away on January 17, 2024, in Goldsboro, NC at the age of 86. A lifelong resident of North Carolina, Opey dedicated his life to the love of his family, and his friends, and to the service of helping others. When recently asked about his life’s purpose, Opey candidly shared, “That’s easy, to help other people.” This simple yet profound idea guided his life and work through a distinguished 53-year career in higher education.
Opey is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Virginia “Jenny” James Jeanes, with whom he shared a long and loving marriage of almost 60 years. Their passing leaves an indelible mark on the family and community they created.
He is survived by his three sons and daughters-in-law, Dale and Terry Jeanes, James and Sharon Jeanes, and Paul Jeanes and Laura Levitan. His extended family included his grandchildren, Kristen Jeanes, and Emily Benton, as well as Owen Benton and his family Olivia Benton and Hannah. He is also survived by his sister Allyce Lucas of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, and preceded in death by his sister Treva Kennedy.
Opey graduated from Atlantic Christian College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and continued to George Peabody College, earning a Master of Arts degree in Chemistry while later earning a Doctor of Education Degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute.
He began his distinguished career in education as a Professor of Chemistry at Chowan College and later served as the Chairman of the Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics at John Tyler Community College. In 1979 Opey joined the University of Mount Olive, where he would go on to play a pivotal role in the evolution of the institution, as Vice President and Dean. In 1989 he transitioned to serving as Vice President for Administrative Services. Ultimately, he assumed the role of Vice President for Special Services at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. At each stop in his career, he left an enduring legacy of academic excellence and of helping the students and broader academic community.
Opey was honored by the governor of North Carolina in 2013 for his commitment to academic excellence within his home state when he received The Order of the Long Leaf Pine in North Carolina. During his lifetime, Opey was also dedicated to his community serving in the Rotary Club, as well as being a member of the Masonic Lodge for over 50 years. The University of Mount Olive named him an honorary alumnus in 2017.
Opey leaves behind a legacy of servant leadership, scholarship, and an unwavering dedication to the betterment of others. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate the person who embodied being a christian gentleman, who at all times was guided by ethics, integrity, and honesty. We will remember his generosity of spirit and the profound impact he had on our lives.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to
Opey and Jenny Jeanes Family Endowed Scholarship Fund
University of Mount Olive
PO Box 90
Mt Olive, NC 28365
A service of remembrance will be held at First Baptist Church, Mount Olive NC on Sunday, January 21, at 2 o’clock in the afternoon. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the First Baptist Christian Life Center. Interment will be held privately with immediate family at the Bailey Cemetery in Bailey, NC at a later time.
