Chandler Walker Gayton

Chandler Walker Gayton was born on December 5, 1990, in Seattle, Washington. He departed his earthly life and transitioned to his reward on July 20, 2024, due to injuries sustained while riding his motorcycle. He attended John Hay Elementary School, Lakeside Middle School, and O’Dea High School, where he was a star football player and served as captain of the football team during his senior year.

Chandler graduated from Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Burnaby, British Columbia, with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Faculty of Communication, Art, and Technology. At SFU, he was a safety on the football team. Chandler also graduated from the University of Washington’s Evans School of Public Policy and Governance with a Master of Public Administration degree.

Chandler obtained his real estate broker’s license and began working for Windermere Real Estate Company. He felt that his extensive knowledge of the Seattle area, as a long-term resident, provided a solid foundation for his real estate career.

In 2017, Chandler took on the role of one of three legislative aides under the legendary civil rights leader, Larry Gossett, a King County Councilman. Chandler handled government and public affairs matters, which he regarded as highly challenging and rewarding. After Councilman Gossett’s retirement, Chandler began working for King County Councilman Girmay Zahilay, focusing on community outreach and communications, particularly in the Skyway area of unincorporated King County. His primary focus was working on affordable housing and land use, where he was extremely successful.

Beginning in 2023, Chandler’s primary professional role was as a strategic advisor for public safety in Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell’s office. His primary job involved community outreach and communication, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Chandler was actively involved in his local community. He served on the Board of Homestead Community Land Trust, the Alumni Board at O’Dea High School and he mentored high school students. He previously served on the board for Treehouse for Kids Young Professional's Board and the Bellevue Police Department African American Citizen's Council.

Chandler made friends easily, often inviting them to his family’s home for holiday meals or fellowship. He enjoyed cooking, watching football, and especially cheering on the Washington Huskies and the Clemson Tigers.

Chandler loved life to the fullest and had an adventurous spirit. One of his favorite hobbies was skiing, and he frequently went snowboarding. Whistler Mountain Resort in British Columbia was his favorite destination. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle throughout the Pacific Northwest, appreciating the majestic beauty of the area. He made it a point to visit family members and friends in South Carolina and Georgia often and was an avid traveler, enjoying trips to places like Egypt, Spain, and the south of France.

Outside of his professional career, Chandler will be remembered as a truly loving son, brother, grandson, uncle, colleague, and friend. When he walked into a room, he would light up the place with his infectious smile and loving demeanor.

Chandler is survived by his parents, Carmen Walker Gayton and Carver Clark Gayton, PhD. He is also survived by his sister Cynthia Marie Gayton (Jason Edwards), brother Carver Clark Gayton, Jr., grandmother Daisy Walker, sister-in-law Dr. Fatisha Gayton (Craig Gayton, DDS, who preceded him in death), niece Gabriela Gayton, nephew Bryce Gayton, as well as many beloved uncles, aunts, cousins, and family members. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Virginia Gayton, and Montgolia Walker.

Chandler would go out of his way to show his unwavering love for his parents and to please and honor them. Mission accomplished, Chan!

Chandler was laid to rest at Sunset Hills Cemetery in Bellevue, WA.

Celebration of Life will be held at O’Dea High School, at 1:00pm, on August 15, 2024

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chandler Walker Gayton Scholarship fund at O’Dea High School in Seattle, WA, or the Chandler Walker Gayton Legacy Fund at Renton Innovation Zone Partnership (RIZP).