Mr. Richard Chavis, 89

Richard Chavis.pdf – 1

Mr. Richard Chavis, 89, of Uvalda, passed away peacefully Aug. 8 surrounded by the love of his family.
Richard was born Oct. 22, 1936, to the late Rev. Robert “Bob” Chavis and Myrtice Yawn Chavis. A lifelong South Georgian, he graduated from Jeff Davis High School with the Class of 1955 and built a life defined by hard work, faith, family and a love of the outdoors. Richard retired from Amercord in 1999 after nearly 16 years of dedicated service. He took great pride in his work and was known for his remarkable dependability, missing only a single day of work during his time there.
To those who knew him best, Richard was happiest outdoors. He was a master gardener whose garden produced more than vegetables — it grew memories shared with family and friends. An accomplished hunter and fisherman, he spent countless hours pursuing deer, wild turkey and fishing. In his younger years he loved coon hunting with his beloved dogs and nephews. One of his proudest hunting accomplishments came in November, 1968, when he harvested an extraordinary 30-point, 236-pound buck along the Ocmulgee River, a story that became part of family lore. Some of his best days were spent in Effingham County with family and his best friend Jack Carter, running dogs! “Richie Boy” was also known for his quick wit and playful spirit. He loved making people laugh and rarely met a family member who didn’t receive one of his unique nicknames. His sense of humor, teasing smile and gift for storytelling brought joy to every gathering and will be fondly remembered by all who loved him.
Raised by his father, the late Rev. Robert “Bob” Chavis, a well-known and beloved Baptist minister, Richard was instilled with a strong Christian faith from an early age. He loved the Lord, kept God at the center of his life, and quietly lived out his faith through his kindness, humility and devotion to his family. Above all else, Richard treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose love was shown through his steady presence, quiet strength and willingness to help others. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra Powell Chavis; sister-in-law Lorene Powell; sisters Alice Parlor, Bonnie McLeod, Margaret Johnson and Mildred Moon; and brothers David Chavis, James Chavis,and Joseph Chavis.
Survivors include his brother Cecil Chavis; children Angie Sellers and husband Ken, Tina Watson (Mike Yawn), and Tony Chavis; and cherished grandchildren, Abby Sellers, Trey Sellers, Peyton Sellers, Megan Walker (Donnie), Jon Michael Watson (Hayleigh Hall) and Karlie Watson, Blake Chavis, Conner Chavis, Peedy Chavis, along with numerous great-grands, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Richard lived a long life filled with love, laughter, hard work, and unforgettable adventures. Whether tending his garden, sitting in a deer stand, casting a fishing line on the Altamaha River or sharing a joke with those he loved, he made every day count. His legacy of faith, dedication, humor, and love for family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Services were held Aug. 14 in the chapel of Swain Funeral Home in Hazlehurst with the Rev. Alvin Merritt and Ken Sellers officiating. Interment followed in Uvalda City Cemetery.
Active pallbearers were Ken Parlor, Mikey Kirkland, Ricky Johnson, Jeffery Chavis, Nash Murphy and Glen Kirkland.
Honorary pallbearers were Jimmy and Greta McLeod, Kenny and Linda Parlor, Steve and Mildred Sellers, and Art and Dale Reagin.
Music was rendered by Ken Parlor and Joshua Worth.
Swain Funeral Home was in charge.