Yajun Zhang

Yajun Zhang, a beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, and esteemed professor, peacefully passed away on February 18, 2025, at the age of 86, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love, wisdom, and dedication to his family, faith, and work.

Born on July 27, 1938, in Jilin, China, Yajun graduated from Jilin ShiYan High School in 1957 with the second-highest entrance exam score in the northeast region of China. He attended Beijing Normal University, earning a degree in Chinese Language and Literature in 1961, and later pursued further studies in the English Department at Beijing Foreign Language University.

In 1963, Yajun married Sufen, his elementary school admirer, who was two years younger than him. Together, they raised three children: Mary, April, and Kevin. In 1995, upon Sufen’s retirement as an OBGYN, Yajun took early retirement and moved to Oklahoma to be closer to their children, especially their first grandchild, Nathan.

A devoted Christian, Yajun embraced his faith 28 years ago, guided by Cameron John, a minister with the international ministry at Memorial Road Church of Christ. He served as a deacon and as the chairman of the international class for more than 20 years, showing his strong commitment to both his faith and the well-being of others.

Yajun’s professional journey was marked by an unwavering passion for teaching and sharing the richness of Chinese language and culture. He taught at several prestigious institutions, including Beijing Language University, Rome University, Vienna University, and Osaka University of Foreign Language Studies. He also played a key role in establishing the Chinese program at the University of Central Oklahoma, where he taught for over 25 years until his retirement in 2022. Additionally, he served as the Secretary-General of the International Society for Chinese Language Teaching and the All China Association for Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

A prolific author, Yajun wrote and co-wrote over 60 publications on Chinese language and culture, including significant works such as The Approach to Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language, A Kaleidoscope of Chinese Culture, Chinese 300, and Contemporary Practical Chinese Writing. His contributions to the field of Chinese language education have been widely respected and continue to inspire students and scholars around the world.

Above all, Yajun was a devoted family man who cherished spending time with his wife, Sufen, as well as their children and grandchildren. His infectious humor and remarkable storytelling brought warmth and joy to every gathering. He valued family above all else, and his love for them was evident in everything he did. Known for his kindness, integrity, and generosity, he always put others first. To his children and grandchildren, he was both strict and loving, serious yet fun. His deep knowledge of Chinese literature and culture, combined with his gift for storytelling, captivated listeners of all ages. A source of wisdom and love, Yajun always supported his family and friends, setting an example of faith and perseverance. He approached life with dignity, humility, and a commitment to giving his best in all things.

Yajun is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Sufen; daughter, Mary Jia, and her husband, Gregory; daughter, April Vaughan, and her husband, Craig; son, Kevin Zhang, and his wife, Tina; and cherished grandchildren: Nathan Jia and his wife, Tiffany, Nicole Jia, Jessica Vaughan and her fiancé, Ben Johnson, Luke Zhang, and Sophia Zhang.

Yajun will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, faith, wisdom, and integrity will continue to inspire his children, grandchildren, and all who knew him. His stories and example will be cherished forever.

A celebration of Yajun's life will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, February 28, 2025 at Memorial Road Church of Christ. You may also join by livestream through the link in the service details below.

Donations in loving memory of Yajun are welcome and can be made to the International Ministry of Memorial Road Church of Christ.