Essie Raye Chandler

ODESSA - It is with rejoicing we accept the passing of Essie Raye Chandler, 92, who peacefully passed at home on July 1st, 2021 into the arms of her Heavenly Father. She was the daughter of Thaddeus and Blanche Choate, born Jan 30th, 1929 in Harlingen, TX.

The beloved wife, mother, and grandmother is preceded in death by her loving husband Herbert Oliver (HO) Chandler, and is survived by their two daughters Cathy Gilleland and Sharon Hobbs as well as their grandchildren Jennifer Sugg, John Gilleland, and Katelyn Ballow.

Ms. Chandler spent her life in devotion to our Lord and was a long time member of Wesley Evangelical Methodist Church and enjoyed leading VBS and Women's Bible Studies. She lived as an example of one of her favorite verses "As for me and my house we will serve the Lord" Jos 24:15 in which she did every day to reflect this and encourage others.

She was a talented artist that pursued her love of art and brought it to others. She loved teaching during her time with ECISD and passed that love to many she touched during her life. She was also a member of Delta Kappa Gamma International Delta Iota Chapter, a group that promotes personal and professional growth of women educators where she served as president of from 1986-1988. She served as a member of the Odessa Art Association and volunteered frequently at the Ellen Noel Art Museum. In addition to teaching she loved homemaking and if you left her house hungry that was on you; not a lack of her trying.

Her favorite role was being called MawMaw. She held this title for over 30 years teaching her grandchildren life knowledge from being unconditionally kind, the importance of presenting yourself well, feeling brave in shoulder pads, that nothing in life is free but must be earned so work for it, and that no matter your troubles a fresh baked cookie will never hurt.

Ms. Chandler's family wishes to give our thanks and love to Maria Cruz, Nurse Amber, and home health aides Snow, Angela, Angie, Janelle, Dr. Kubacak, and Dr. Amaram.

The graveside service will be at Gaines County Memorial Cemetery on July 7th at 1pm with Rev. Ronnie Newton leading the victory service.

The family asks that if any would like to send donations to please consider either Meals on Wheels or Home Hospice 619 N Grant Ave St 120, Odessa 79761.