Chester "Phil" Gist

Chester P. “Phil” Gist, 71, of Pensacola, FL went to be with his heavenly Father on Sunday, August 4, 2013. Phil was born on June 28, 1942 in Burkburnett, TX; the oldest of four children, to Jack and Lessie Gist. He graduated from Pampa High School in 1960 and was a member of the Harvesters’ State basketball championship teams in 1958 and 1959. After high school he attended Arlington State College before joining the US Navy in 1966. CTMCM Gist served his country honorably for 25 ½ years in the Navy with duty stations in the Philippines, Panama Canal zone, California, Spain, Hawaii and two tours in Pensacola, FL where he retired from the Navy in 1991. In retirement, he was an active member and officer of the American Legion Post 240 and a member of AmVets Post 12.

Phil was preceded in death by his father, Jack and mother, Lessie. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Marita “Skeet” and her mother, Hansel of Arlington, TX; son, Andy (Beth) of Suffolk, VA; daughter, Amber (Boyfriend, Larry) of Pensacola; sisters, Gayle (Kenneth) Steward, Karen (Wayne) Leatherman, Dianna (Ellis) Knight; four grandchildren, Jordan, Autumn, Rachel and Zachary, and many nieces and nephews.

Phil was a loving husband, father, and brother; a proud grandfather, a good friend and a loyal sailor and patriot. He loved golfing, basketball, fishing, and volunteering to help others. He will be deeply missed and will always be in our hearts.

His life will be celebrated during a funeral service at Barrancas National Cemetery at NAS, Pensacola, on Friday, August 9, 2013 at 10:15am, Shelter B. A memorial service and reception will immediately follow at American Legion Post 240 on Gulf Beach Hwy in Pensacola, FL.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Legion Post 240. All are welcome to make online condolences to the guestbook at www.oaklawnfunerals.com. Oak Lawn Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.