Phillip W. Chatelain

The world became a little less bright on January 13, 2026, with the passing of Phillip “Phil” Wayne Chatelain, age 78. He was born on March 21, 1947, in Marksville, Louisiana, to Clarence and Lillian Chatelain.

Phil was raised in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and graduated from Hot Springs High School. He continued his education at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. While attending college, Phil married his first wife, Linda Chatelain, and together they began raising their family.

Following graduation, Phil began a successful career in marketing and sales with Texas Instruments in Dallas, Texas. During his several-decade career with the company, one assignment led to a two-year relocation to Philadelphia. Upon completing that assignment, he returned to Texas, where he resided in Allen with his family for more than 25 years. Phil later concluded his corporate career with Nova Marketing, where he again worked in marketing and sales and spent two years working abroad in Guadalajara, Mexico. After leaving Nova Marketing, Phil and his common-law wife, Shirley Jennings, made their home in Rowlett, Texas. In retirement, Phil remained active by working as a school bus driver for Garland ISD for 11 years.

Phil had an unconditional love for his family and was a devoted father to his three children. He was an avid golfer, sports enthusiast, and animal lover. He especially loved the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, and, of course, the Arkansas Razorbacks. He also enjoyed the outdoors — whether camping, fishing, boating, sailing, gardening, or simply sleeping outside.

Preceding Phil in death were his parents; his common-law wife of 23 years, Shirley Jennings; and his youngest son, Greg Chatelain.

He is survived by his children: daughter Angela (Chuck) Parrish of Conway, Arkansas, and son Chris (Shalimar) Chatelain of Forney, Texas; his cherished grandchildren, Joshua (Alexandra) Parrish, Bethany Chatelain, Cameron Chatelain, Lucy Chatelain, Bryce Chatelain, and Parker Chatelain; and his great-grandchildren, Sawyer and Oliver Parrish. Phil also leaves behind his brother, Charles (Susan) Chatelain of Melissa, Texas; his sister, Susan (Larry) Young of Greenbrier, Arkansas; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on February 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Anderson-Clayton-Gonzalez Funeral Home, located at 1111 Military Parkway in Mesquite, Texas. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. the same day at Sacred Heart Cemetery, 3900 Rowlett Road, Rowlett, Texas.