Chester Jay Luby

Chester J. Luby passed away peacefully at the age of 94 at his home in Frenchman’s Creek, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Born in Denver, Colorado in 1931, he was the beloved son of Sam and May Luby, and the younger brother of Sam Jr. and Betty.

Chester was the devoted husband of 63 years to Joan S. Luby, and father to daughters Cindy and Jodi Luby. He was also grandfather to Nola Lee Luby Dolan and Eugene Luby Dolan.

A graduate of the University of Chicago, Chester went on to earn his law degree from Yale University and was admitted to both the New York and Florida bars. Though trained in law, he joined the family automotive business, Luby Chevrolet, which operated dealerships across several major U.S. cities including New York, Miami, Boston, Baltimore, Denver, and St. Petersburg. He ultimately settled in New York City and Oyster Bay, Long Island where he spent the majority of his life and career.

Following his success in the automotive industry, Chester founded Interstate National Dealer Services, an insurance company specializing in extended warranties. Under his leadership, the company grew to be publicly traded on the NASDAQ exchange before he took it private and eventually sold it in 2006.

Chester was a longtime and enthusiastic member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), serving as chairman of the New York chapter and as a member of the international board. He later founded the Financial Forum of the YPO Gold Palm Beach Chapter, continuing his commitment to mentorship and leadership development throughout his life.

After relocating to Palm Beach in 2005, Chester and Joan joined the board of directors of the Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach, where they served with dedication for over a decade, supporting the arts and the local community.

In 2015, together with his wife, Chester established the Joan and Chester Luby Charitable Trust to support innovation, self-reliance, entrepreneurship, risk-taking, creativity, and compassion. The Trust provides merit-based grants to individuals at several American universities, ensuring that the Luby legacy of integrity, generosity, and vision will continue to inspire future generations.

Chester J. Luby will be remembered for his intellect, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to his family and community. He leaves behind a legacy of purposeful living and a profound impact on those who knew and loved him.

He will be laid to rest at I J Morris Star of David. A memorial service will be planned for a future date.