Born in 1935 in Selma, AL, James Donald Chandler Sr., “Don,” transitioned into his new life on June 4th, 2018. Don was a son, a brother, a husband and a father who dedicated his life to caring for those whom he loved: his family. In the U.S. Navy, he spent eight years serving during the Korean War as an esteemed member of the Elite VP 22 Squadron. Following his time in the service, he married the love of his life, Betty Jo Swinney, who remained by his side for close to 60 years until her death in 2011. Don loved to travel with his wife, as well as his son and grandchildren. His travels spanned from Europe to Panama City Beach, Florida. A lifelong, dedicated Alabama Crimson Tide super fan, he could frequently be found in the stands of Bryant-Denny Stadium cheering for the Tide. Perhaps the greatest joy of his life was his relationship with his three grandchildren. In death he is reunited with his beloved wife Betty Chandler, his sisters Ruth Weaver and Joan Burke, as well as his eldest grandson Zack Chandler. He is survived by his son Don Chandler Jr., sister Linda Wyatt, daughter-in-law Misty Chandler, and his grandchildren Peyton and Cece Chandler. Funeral services will be held on the afternoon of Thursday June 7th at Johns-Ridout’s Mortuary Elmwood Chapel, with a visitation for friends and family beginning at 1:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM. Burial at Elmwood Cemetery to follow.
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