Dea McCarson Chandler

Dea McCarson Chandler, a beloved educator and cherished family member, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2026, in Carrollton, Georgia, at the age of 68. Born in Rome, Georgia, on March 17, 1957, she was the daughter of the late John McCarson, II and the late Bonita Jo Sutton Hobbs. In addition to her parents, Dea is preceded in death by her brother, John McCarson III and her step-father, Delmer Hobbs.

Dea's career spanned many years with Carroll County schools and retiring from Carrollton City Schools, where she positively impacted countless students. Armed with her Master’s Degree in Special Education, she was not just an educator but a beacon of hope for those who needed it most. Her fun-loving spirit and passion for teaching left an indelible mark on her colleagues and students alike. Outside of her professional life, Dea found immense joy in spending time with her grandchildren, Cameron, Bayleigh, and Jackson. Their laughter and love filled her heart with happiness and fulfillment. She also enjoyed golfing and was an active member of the local golfing association, where she formed lasting friendships and created treasured memories on the green. She will be profoundly missed by all who knew her, but her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Dea is survived by her devoted husband of 25 years, James "Jim" Chandler, her loving daughter Tara Doria of Atlanta, her sons Carson Ellis of Nashville, TN, and Chad and Candace Chandler of Tallapoosa. and her precious grandchildren, Cameron Thomas, Bayleigh Chandler, and Jackson Doria. She leaves behind her dear sisters, Leigh Ann and Kirk Adams of Rome, and Rae McCarson and David Groth of Cedartown, as well as several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Dea's life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 2:00 PM from Hutcheson's Memorial Chapel with Reverend Wayne Benefield officiating.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM.  Following the service, Dea's ashes will be inurned at West Georgia Memorial Park.

Serving as Honorary Pallbearers with reserved seating will be the Pink Ladies of the Ladies' Golf Association at Fairfield Plantation including the 19th Hole Group.

Hutcheson's Memorial Chapel & Crematory of Buchanan is honored to serve the Chandler family.