Chet graduated from Saint Leo University with a Bachelor’s of Criminal Justice, a foundation that reflected his steady sense of purpose and commitment to service. He served in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) from 1981 to 1985, and then continued a distinguished career with the Florida Highway Patrol from 1985 to 2006. In 2006, he founded Crashteams and then in 2012 he became an adjunct professor for Keiser University, where he worked until 2026.
Away from work, Chet’s steady focus gave way to the simple joys he valued most—diving, motorcycles, ACTAR, and fishing—interests that spoke to a life lived with both skill and appreciation for the outdoors and the open road.
Chet found deep meaning in family life. He married Dawn Tomlinson on December 3, 1994, with whom he raised a family for 28 years.
Chet leaves behind his daughter, Jennifer Dickey (Stephen Dickey); his son, Christopher Tomlinson (Ashlee Tomlinson); his stepson, Justin Gordon; and his stepdaughter, Michelle Trost. He is survived by his sister, Kathy Phillips; and by his grandsons, Everett, Charles, and Christopher Jr. He is also survived by his nephews, Tommy and Bryant, his nieces, Robin and Brandy and many other loving aunts, uncles and cousins.
Chet was preceded in death by his father, Cleo Leon Tomlinson; his mother, Bonnie Mae Tomlinson; and his sister, Bonnie Marie Cole.
A visitation will be held at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 11801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223, on July 7, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A memorial service will be held at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home on July 8, 2026, at 11:00 AM.
The family extends sincere gratitude to the entire Critical Care team at Baptist Heart Hospital for their care and compassion.
