The Chandler family is heartbroken to share news of the sudden passing of Donald "Eddie" Chandler who left us on August 9th at the age of 86. Eddie is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Patty and their two daughters, Tammie Chandler and Pammie Chandler Egan, Son in law Steve Egan and grandsons Adam Egan and Parker Mulneix along with his wife Brooke Burton Mulneix. He is predeceased by his parents Homer and Marjorie Chandler, siblings Doris Waddill, James Chandler, Phillis Walker and Charles Ray Chandler and grandchildren Graham and Griffin Mulneix.
Eddie was born in 1938 in a makeshift hospital on Main Street in St. Albans. He was a proud small-town man from birth. The youngest of five, he grew up on a chicken farm and the work cultivated his entrepreneurial spirit. He met the love of his life at an early age and always said he made a mindful decision to become the man she deserved, provide her a fine life they would earn together and devote himself to her happiness. He did just that and more. Patty was his soulmate. They shared a rare and eternal bond. Holding hands, side-by-side their whole lives. Sixty-six years ago they married and settled into small town life. They celebrated the miracle of 2 daughters they thought they would never have. They labored to build a business on Eddie's strong back and sheer will. The business endured and supported his family, allowing him to become the ultimate girl dad. His bride and his girls were his pride and joy. He saw countless dance recitals, majorette performances, swim meets and endless school events. He did not just watch, he participated. He made sure all three of his girls felt special. A corsage for Easter, a new outfit for special occasions, endless hours of hair and makeup and countless dollars on lessons and whims. He worked hard. He loved hard and asked those around him to do the same. He was an enormously proud man.
That early entrepreneurial spirit grew a business that became a centerpiece of St. Albans history. Chandler's Floor and Wall Covering flourished for 60 years and occupied a storefront just a few doors down from that little country hospital that brought him into this world. He and Patty were blessed as they rode the waves of trial and triumph that comes with owning your own business. They survived and flourished.
Eddie never hesitated to bow his head to Jesus and found a home and church family at Grace Baptist Temple. He proudly stood for Uncle Sam, served in the Air National Guard and was known in the community for sharing flag lapel pins with his fellow proud Americans. He had an easy sense of humor and witty sarcasm. He was known in St. Albans for his devoted presence and his notion of energizing his community. He and Patty humbly contributed to the revitalization of Olde Main Plaza and their charming hometown. Eddie was an avid sports fan. He coached youth basketball when his girls were young and heartily shared his lifelong passion for the Lakers with his grandsons. He was a devoted WVU superfan and loved a good Mountaineer tailgate. He added the University of Florida to his playbook when his grandson graduated as a Gator.
His family was his heart, and he was thrilled to be gifted two grandsons. He loved fiercely and was a proud 'Papa' who gave both boys cherished memories and boundless encouragement. He followed their lives, celebrated every win, and valued the important moments. Eddie enjoyed traveling, loved the beach, and treasured the vacations with his entire family in tow.
Eddie will be profoundly missed by his family. He and Patty built a world of love and laughter, and they shared that world with many.
The family invites you to honor his life on Saturday, August 23, 2025 at Grace Baptist Temple in St. Albans. Visitation will begin at 12:30 with 2:00 services followed by a brief observance at Cunningham Memorial Park, St. Albans.
You may visit Eddie's tribute page at
BartlettNichols.com to share condolences and memories with the family.
Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home, family owned and located at 409 Sixth Ave., St. Albans is honored to serve the Chandler family.
Published by Charleston Gazette-Mail from Aug. 16 to Aug. 15, 2025.