Chester A. Varnadore

Source: Miles - Odum Funeral Home

Chester Asbury Varnadore, 90, of Waycross passed away peacefully at home on Sunday March 24, 2013. He was born in Blackshear on November 29, 1922 to the late Archie and Sarah Varnadore. He began work with the ACL Railroad and retired from CSX as a Car Man and Crane Operator.

He lived his life as an example to others, putting God first. His many talents included having the ability to build anything and he was often called upon by his many family members and friends to use that gift. One of his greatest enjoyments was fishing. He loved to show his grandkids how it was done. After his retirement, he acquired a large motor home and pontoon boat, and spent weeks at a time fishing the waters of Lake Eufula. These times were usually enjoyed with brothers and sisters, spending time as a close knit family. When he was no longer able to go, there were some of his fondest memories.

He was a decorated World War II Veteran. He participated in the Philippines Campaign where he was severely wounded. For his sacrifice he was awarded the Purple Heart.

In addition to his father and mother, he was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Mary Pearl Harper Varnadore, a son and daughter-in-law, Gerald A. Varnadore and Joyce Dale Varnadore also; Percy Varnadore, Parnell Varnadore, Hazel Pickering, Letha Woods, Mary Ellen Tuten and Clyde Varnadore.

Survivors include his three children, Sharon Deal and her husband Lindon of Waycross, Martha Altman and her husband Ray of Waycross, Tony Varndore and his wife Becky of Waycross; his grandchildren Lin Deal, Tori Burnette and her husband Sam, Sheri Deal, Rhonda Altman and her finance Rob Murray, Rachel Strickland, Benny Ray Altman and his wife Chasity, Darlene Lee, Brian Varnadore and his wife Jenny, Tony Wayne Varnadore and his wife Wendy, Ashley McQuaig and her husband Jason, Sharon Abshire, Karen Kunce, Jerri Varnadore and Chet Varnadore; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; a brother Paul Varnadore and his wife Betty of Waycross, and a sister-in-law, Hazel Varnadore of Waycross; a number of nieces, nephews and other relatives.