Carol Chester

JONESBORO - Carol Dean Chester, 68, ran into the arms of Jesus in the early morning hours of Tuesday, Sept. 12, in Jonesboro, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Jonesboro to Curtis and Glenda Chester, Carol graduated from Jonesboro High in 1973, and attended Arkansas State University where he majored in fine arts with an emphasis on theater/drama.

Carol began his adult life serving as youth minister at University Baptist, spending much time working with the youth at his home church, North Main Baptist.

Carol participated in several dramas in high school, college and church. North Main was also where he and the love of his life, Brenda, married and began their life together working in various areas of the church and community. Carol spent more than 30 years as a store manager for Radio Shack most of that time in Jonesboro.

Managing stores in Germantown, Tenn., and St. Louis, Carol also served as district manager in Gulfport, Miss., and Evansville, Ind., but always returned home to the town, friends and family that he loved. A loyal and dedicated manager, Carol loved those who worked with him as they did him.

A lover of nature and astronomy, Carol spent lots of time watching the skies, stargazing, flower gardening and enjoying time with his animals. A cat person, Carol loved nothing more than spending time with his family.

A big man with an even bigger heart, Carol was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Glenda Chester as well as one brother Jimmy Chester.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Chester, daughter, Brittanie Chester (Daniel Felts) and son, Matthew Chester (Christy); three grandchildren Lizzy, Nate and Avery; grandkitty Sophie; and his mother- and father-in-law, Betty and Edward Elder.

In addition, he is also survived by two brothers, Dan (Judy) Chester and Tom (Cindy) Chester; one sister, Phyllis (Donald) Story; a brother-in-law, Eddie (Carla) Farley and sister-in-law, Debbie Turpin (Jerry). Nephews, nieces as well as great-nieces and nephews are many but loved dearly nonetheless.

The family expresses their deepest heartfelt gratitude to Carol's dedicated care team led by Dr. Clint Edwards and the nephrology team. A special thanks goes to the staff of Peritoneal Dialysis Clinic. Dr. Mark Wiggins and Dr. Morrison have been a true blessing to the Chester family for their kindness, guidance and support during this difficult time.

Visitation is under the direction of Emerson Funeral Home and will be 1 p.m. Monday with a celebration of Carol's life to follow at 2 p.m.

Memorials may be made to the local Foundation of Arts or the Northeast Arkansas Humane Society.

Online registry: www.emersonfuneralhome.com