James Fuller Chandler Jr.

James (Jim) Fuller Chandler Jr. was born on September 14, 1938, at his Grandfather Staley’s home on a farm near Winters, Texas. He died Wednesday November 22, 2023, at the age of 85.

At the age of 8, he and his sister Linda were accepted into the Hendrick Home for Children in Abilene, TX, where he lived for the remainder of his childhood.  He thrived there, enjoying the staff, friends, and learning life lessons such as the ranching skills which fostered his love of horses and livestock. After graduating high school, he attended Abliene Christian University until he joined the United States Army around the age of 20, to service his country and find his path in life.

He quickly adapted to Army life thanks to his regimented upbringing in the children’s home.  He served his country for 20 years, rising to the rank of Sergeant Major, the highest rank awarded to a non-commissioned officer.  He also served in Vietnam and was awarded various service medals as well as Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his bravery and valor.

He retired after 20 years of service and then went on to work for United States Postal Service for 30 years.

He married Pat, the love of his life, in 1994. For 22years, they lived in Ferris, Tx on 10 acres where he enjoyed his passions of raising horses, playing with his grandchildren, serving as secretary/treasurer of the Palmer Lions Club and attending First United Methodist Church of Waxahachie.  He and Pat have enjoyed traveling extensively throughout England and attending summer school at Marlborough College in Marlborough, England, as well as visiting dear friends.

He and Pat retired in 2014 and moved to Waxahachie to be close to their church home, the Builder’s Sunday School Class, and friends. In Waxahachie, Jim quickly located groups where he played 42 dominos and attended the Methodist Men’s Prayer Breakfast.

He is survived by his wife Pat, his children Paul Chandler, John Chandler, Seth and wife Tracy (Sullivan) Terry, and George Terry. His grandchildren: Riley Chandler, Will Terry, Brooks Terry, Alexandra and husband Thomas Kratofil, Lee Ryder and Johnny Ryder.