James Arington Chandler Sr., versatile musician
James Arington Chandler Sr., “Jimmy” to all who knew him, 65, departed this life to be with the Lord Friday, July 31, 2020. He was born to the late Preston Lee Chandler Sr. and Helen Harris Chandler June 29, 1955.
He was a devoted Christian and well-known musician who was versatile on many stringed instruments. Despite inability to read music and only “playing by ear,” he was an excellent performer. He attended Blackwater Fellowship Church, and several other churches, including Bethel Tabernacle and the Church of God, and performed with other gospel musicians. He worked many years as a heavy equipment operator for several local firms. In addition, he served as a volunteer firefighter and ambulance attendant in Roxana Volunteer Fire Company for several years, and Frankford Volunteer Fire Company for 13 ½ years. His favorite color was red. He was a “Wawa coffee hound” and met with his friends at many locations, including Captain Bill’s in the past, and up to Delmar Diner more recently. He was an excellent shade tree mechanic. He had a positive, gentle spirit and would do anything for anybody in need of his help.
Jimmy is survived by his children: Trina L. Crawford (Noel) of Elkton, Md., and James A. Chandler Jr. (Margaret) of Georgetown. Also surviving are his grandchildren: Kyle Stephens and his fiancé Sierra Sammons and Josiah Yarnell; and his great-grandchild: Kensley Stephens. He is also survived by two siblings: Sandra Hickman of Laurel, and Preston Lee Chandler Jr. of Kentucky.
A time for viewing and visitation will be held Friday, Aug. 7, at 11 a.m. until noon, at Odyssey Church, 2 Discovery Lane, Selbyville. A funeral service and Celebration of Life will be conducted at noon with Pastor Rob Welsh conducting. In accordance with the state of emergency and coronavirus restrictions, social distancing will be practiced and masks are required. Interment will follow in the Banks Family Cemetery in Ocean View.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to assist with medical and final expenses. Donations can be sent to Odyssey Church, Jimmy Chandler Fund, P.O. Box 492, Selbyville, DE 19975.
Electronic condolences to: www.watsonfh.com
