William Herman Chandler

William Herman Chandler, a beacon of love and service, passed away on January 17, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on December 14, 1949, in Knoxville, Tennessee, William lived a life that exemplified compassion, dedication, and faith. He departed this world in Cleveland, Tennessee, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and an imprint of his spirit on all who knew him. Affectionately known as "William" or "Herman" by those close to him, he was a man whose heart knew no bounds. His life's journey was marked by a profound commitment to serving others, a path he navigated with grace and an unwavering smile.
William was preceded in death by his father, William Clyde Chandler; and his sisters, Joy Elaine Chandler and Julia Stapleton. Moreover, his brothers Tim and Charles Chandler, and his niece, Nicole Rucker, and Mercedes! Also, members of his extended family were pastors Jim, (Evelyn), James Leslie, Major, and Mark Chandler.
He is survived by his spouse, Julia Chandler, and the matriarchal figure of strength and love, his mother, Willie Mae Kyle. His sister Jacqueline Chandler and sister-in-law Ronnie (Tim) Chandler, along with his brother John (Kim) Chandler and cousin Hermetha, will continue to reflect the familial bonds that William cherished.
William's daughters, Travonda Edmonson, Daelisha Key, Davonda Chandler, and bonus daughter Charlene Grant stand as testaments to his love and guidance. They, along with his grandchildren-Dashawnda and Danika Key, Daeona Campbell, Coreyona and Ariel Armstrong, Nicholas, Keshawn, Neveah Chandler, and Trevor Edmonson-will forever be inspired by his memory.
His nieces and nephews-Nicole Chandler; Nilah, John Jr. (Trenice), and E.Jedaryll Chandler Sr (Tiffany); Renee Dickson and Candace McCullough; Herbert Stapleton and Joy Fain; Charles Jr. and Darryl Stewart (Valerie)-will remember their uncle as a pillar of strength and a source of endless support.
His in-laws include his brothers William (Pam), Charles (Belinda), Preston (Linda), and Walter (Veronica). He also had stepchildren Kyline Talley, Marlon, and Monica Rogers, along with many great-grandchildren, great-nieces, great-nephews, friends, and more family than can be named.
William's life was a narrative of purpose and passion. As an ordained minister in the AME Zion Church, he served with humility at Price Memorial AME Zion Church in Cleveland, Tennessee. His spiritual leadership was a guiding light to many, and his message of hope resonated within the walls of the church and beyond.
In his professional life, William was the proud owner and cosmetologist of Chandler's House of Styles, where he transformed appearances and touched lives with his warm conversation and caring demeanor. His association with Patton Funeral Home in Cleveland was marked by his compassionate support for those in times of grief.
William was deeply involved in several ministries that he held close to his heart. He was a pillar in the prison ministry at Brushy Mountain, the jail ministry at the Cleveland/Bradley jail complex, and the Inman Street Halfway House, where he worked under the leadership of Teresa Oglesby. In these roles, he provided a source of hope and redemption for those seeking a second chance.
To describe William as merely loving and friendly would be an understatement. His life was a testament to the power of positivity and the strength of the human spirit. He was a motivator, a cheerleader for the downtrodden, and a confidant to the lost. His laughter was infectious, his counsel sought after, and his presence a comfort to many.
As we reflect on the life of William Herman Chandler, let us remember him not with sadness, but with a celebration of the joy he brought into our lives. Let us honor his memory by embodying the values he held dear: love unconditionally, serve selflessly, and live faithfully. William's story is not one of an end but of a continuous ripple of influence, touching lives for generations to come. Let us carry forward the light of his spirit, forever bright and undimmed.
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