Dr. M. Jeya Chandra

Memorial trees planted for:

Dr. M. Jeya Chandra

<p>Dr. M. Jeya Chandra, affectionately known as Jey to his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024, while visiting Mysuru, India. Born on December 1, 1943, in Nagercoil, India, Jey's extraordinary journey from his childhood to his final moments was defined by his unwavering faith, dedication to education, and deep love for his family.</p><p><br></p><p>Jey's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the love of family. He was preceded in death by his father P. Massillamony and mother Mary Jeevamani. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Emeline, with whom he shared a lifetime of devotion and partnership. He is also survived by his cherished younger sister, Indra Michael; his children, Naveen Chandra and Jean (Nandhu) Hickle; and his son-in-law, Kyle Hickle. His granddaughter, Katharina Grace, was his greatest joy, and their bond was uniquely precious. Jey was also loved by countless cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members scattered around the world, each of whom held a special place in his heart.</p><p><br></p><p>Jey lived a life firmly rooted in his quiet yet unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. His faith shone beautifully through the humble and genuine way he lived every day. His love, service, and care for others reflected a faith of depth and authenticity, grounded in Scripture and lived out with integrity. His actions—whether in his gentle encouragement, acts of service, or steadfastness in the face of challenges—were a testament to his deeply rooted relationship with his Savior. Jey's life pointed always upward to Christ, and the light of Jesus shone brightly through him to everyone he encountered.</p><p><br></p><p>Jey's academic journey was both remarkable and inspiring. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Thiagarajar College of Engineering (Madras University) in India, a Master's degree in Industrial Engineering from Penn State University, and a PhD in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research from Syracuse University. His passion for learning and sharing knowledge was central to his life.</p><p><br></p><p>In 1980, Jey began a distinguished career as a Professor of Industrial Engineering at Penn State University, a position he held until his retirement in 2017. His commitment to teaching extended well beyond the classroom—he was a mentor and advisor to countless students over nearly four decades. Jey's contributions were recognized with numerous teaching and service awards, including six Outstanding Faculty Awards, the George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching, and accolades from both peers and students. He supervised over 80 graduate theses and 15 honors theses, published 60 scholarly articles, and authored the textbook "Statistical Quality Control" in 2001. He continued to teach part-time after retirement, driven by his on-going passion to encourage others in their academic pursuits. </p><p><br></p><p>Beyond academia, Jey embraced life with vibrancy and enthusiasm. He was a devoted Penn State football fan, a decades-long season ticket holder whose loyalty to the Nittany Lions was unshakable. He also found joy in leading Bible studies, tutoring, and engaging in meaningful conversations that often became teachable moments. Jey delighted in good food, a fine glass of wine, the latest James Bond movies, and music of all kinds. He loved family holiday traditions around Christmas and Easter. He especially looked forward to the annual Thanksgiving traditions celebrated for over 40 years with the same close-knit group of family friends. His love for exploration took him across the globe often, immersing himself in diverse cultures and experiences, though he always looked forward to returning to "Happy Valley", his much beloved home.</p><p><br></p><p>Dr. M. Jeya Chandra's life was defined by his faith, wisdom, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. He was a brilliant scholar, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and a faithful servant to his community. Though his presence will be profoundly missed, his legacy of gentle strength and selfless love will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew him.</p><p><br></p><p>Viewing will be held at Koch Funeral Home in State College from 3-5pm on Friday, January 10th. </p><p><br></p><p>Funeral service will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in State College at 10am on Saturday, January 11th, preceded by a viewing at the church from 9:00-9:45am. </p><p><br></p><p>Burial will take place after the funeral.</p><p><br></p><p>Memorial contributions may be made to "Grace Lutheran Church" in State College, PA either as an undesignated general gift in Dr. Chandra's memory or as a directed gift to the Karunalaya School Home for Mentally Challenged Children in India (please indicate on check memo line). </p><p><br></p><p>Online condolences may be entered at www.kochfuneralhome.com or visit us on Facebook.</p><p><br></p>
December 1, 1943 - December 29, 202412/01/194312/29/2024
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Dr. M. Jeya Chandra
Dr. M. Jeya Chandra
29 Trees have been planted in memory of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra.
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Leslie and John Potter, class of 1996

January 16, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Leslie and John Potter, class of 1996. Plant a tree
Dr. Chandra was such an extraordinary person. I was grateful to have him on my MS committee as Penn State. The world will miss him! Peace.
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Anonymous

January 13, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
A tree planted by the waters bears fruit in its season .... because Jesus is our tree of life
D

Daani & Kirk

January 11, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Daani & Kirk. Plant a tree
Our deepest condolences, in loving memory of Chandra Uncle.
T

The Michael Family

January 10, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by The Michael Family. Plant a tree
Peace, Prayers and Blessings,
A

Anonymous

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
We are thinking of you everyday and in our prayers. Sending love and deepest condolence at this difficult time!
S

Srividya and Gautam

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Srividya and Gautam. Plant a tree
Jey has contributed infinitely to everyone's lives. We are touched by his generosity and kindness. He is our role model and will be dearly missed.
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Anonymous

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
Dear Doddappa , We miss you. Doddamma, Naveen Anna, Nandhu Akka (Nanthe), Kyle Anna (mama) and Katharina, we're praying for all of you.
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Susan Chang

January 10, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Susan Chang. Plant a tree
Sent with love and remembrance,
H

Honavar family

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Honavar family. Plant a tree
You will be in our thoughts and prayers.
T

The Srinivasan family

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by The Srinivasan family. Plant a tree
C

Covasa and Trivedi Family

January 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Covasa and Trivedi Family. Plant a tree
Dr. Jey, Thank you for being a inspiration to all of us. May your love, prayers, and dedication continue to grow in every life you touched. With Love!
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Grewals -Rima, Raj, Angad, and Kabir

January 09, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Grewals -Rima, Raj, Angad, and Kabir. Plant a tree
Our thoughts and prayers are with Emeline, Jean, and Naveen. Jeya's kindness, generosity, and humility will always be cherished and deeply missed.
S

Samuel Family

January 09, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Samuel Family. Plant a tree
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Laura and Tony Spencer

January 09, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Laura and Tony Spencer. Plant a tree
Wishing you the strength and comfort of family and friends during this difficult time.
B

Barry & Lisa Parker

January 08, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Barry & Lisa Parker. Plant a tree
With deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences, our love and prayers are with you.
A

Anonymous

January 08, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
Our thoughts are with Dr. Chandra's family. We remember him as a caring, kind and comitted professor, an impactful presence that will be so missed
J

Joe Goldberg

January 08, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Joe Goldberg. Plant a tree
Tree planting is the perfect metaphor for Jey's love of gently growing knowledge in those that he mentored. He was adored by all and terribly missed.
R

Rosemarie Palmer

January 08, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Rosemarie Palmer. Plant a tree
May his memory live on in our hearts.
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Gabriel, Georgette, Ricardo and Gislene

January 08, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Gabriel, Georgette, Ricardo and Gislene. Plant a tree
May God comfort the hearts of us who now miss Dr. Chandra. We pray that one day we all meet our friend again in the presence of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
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Anonymous

January 08, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree
Thinking of you.
T

The Hagen Family

January 08, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Dr. M. Jeya Chandra has been arranged by The Hagen Family. Plant a tree
Dear Chandra Family, Jeya's passing deeply saddens us and our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Love, The Dan & Rosemary Hagen Family