In Loving Memory of Paul Louis Chester

1957 - 2025

Paul Louis Chester, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and proud American, passed away on March 7, 2025, in Boyd, Texas, at the age of 67. Born on December 8, 1957, in Morristown, New Jersey, to Louis Lyman Chester and Virginia Pearl Chester (née Byrd), Paul was raised in Succasunna, New Jersey, in a home filled with love, discipline, and faith. From an early age, Paul carried with him the values instilled by his family—honor, integrity, and an unshakable sense of duty. He was baptized in the Baptist faith and remained deeply devoted to his Lord and Savior throughout his life. His faith was the cornerstone of his character, shaping him into a man of quiet strength and unwavering conviction.

At the age of 17, Paul answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy. During his time in the military, he earned his high school diploma and quickly proved himself to be a dedicated and skilled serviceman. Rising to the rank of E-5 in his first term, Paul took immense pride in his service, always carrying with him the discipline and work ethic that defined his time in uniform.

After his years in the Navy, Paul's life changed forever. In 1983, he met the love of his life, Mistie Kay Stone. After falling in love, they married and built a life centered on family and the joy of raising their children. Their love story was not without struggle, but ultimately, they were always led back to one another.

Paul was not just a father—he was a great dad, a steadfast protector, a patient teacher, and a guiding light. Paul had a quiet nature, but his passions spoke volumes. He could spend hours talking about his Harley-Davidson motorcycles, Fords, or American muscle cars, his eyes lighting up with excitement. A man of many talents, Paul was musically inclined, playing multiple instruments with natural ease. He especially cherished his Ovation guitar, and music filled the spaces of his home, creating lasting memories for those who loved him.

He was also a collector at heart, often joking that he never owned just one of anything—always multiples. His intelligence and craftsmanship were undeniable; he was a true jack-of-all-trades. He spent years working alongside Johnny Lane, a young man he considered a second son, passing on his knowledge and skill to him.

Yet, above all, Paul's greatest pride and joy were his grandchildren. He was a grandpa who was present, loving, and endlessly proud, cherishing every moment with them and celebrating their accomplishments with heartfelt enthusiasm. His family was his world, and he dedicated his life to ensuring they felt the depth of his love and the strength of his unwavering support.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Mistie Chester; his son, Joshua Paul Chester; his daughters, Sarah Kay Wyche and her fiancé, Deral, Ashley McCaleb and her husband, Chris, Jessica Norwood and her husband, Marcus, and April Hartline and her husband, Mikael. He is also survived by 21 treasured grandchildren, who were the light of his life. Additionally, he leaves behind his siblings, Sue Ann Poulin, Timothy Chester, and Joe Chester, as well as his chosen brothers, Gene and Larry, among many extended family members and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Virginia Chester, and his brother, Dannyjoe Chester.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM at Azle Funeral Chapel, located on the grounds of Azleland Cemetery. Family, friends, and all who were blessed to know Paul are invited to gather in remembrance of a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

Paul Louis Chester lived a life of faith, service, and love—leaving behind not only cherished memories but also a profound impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. His gentle strength, his unwavering devotion to his family, and his quiet but powerful presence will be deeply missed, yet his spirit will live on in the lives he touched.