James Martin Chandler, 93, of DeSoto, TX, passed away on Wednesday, May 5, 2021. He was born to parents Leslie Carmon and Augusta Amelia (Gunderson) Chandler on February 26, 1928 in Wise Community in Van Zandt County, TX.
James was a graduate of Mabank High School where he met his wife, Mary Bell (Dean) Chandler. They were married on July 9, 1946 in Mabank, TX. He was a loyal and dedicated husband to his loving wife for 74 years. They attended the Church of Christ and were baptized together shortly after they were married. This was just the beginning of their journey together. He was a loyal and faithful Christian, who loved the Lord.
James was a hard-working man who took great pride in providing for his wife and five children. Some of his hobbies included playing softball and football, fishing, hunting and boxing. James loved the outdoors and enjoyed spending weekends with his family at his farm in Mabank. He spent much time outdoors working in the yard and creating projects. James loved traveling the world with Mary Bell. They enjoyed seeing and learning about new places, the people and the history.
James began his career as a farmer. After moving to Dallas around 1952, he began a career in the HVAC business. He worked at Spencer Air Conditioning and Heating Co. in Irving, TX for 44 years before retiring in 2003 as President and Co-owner of the company.
James was an amazing husband, father, and friend to many. He was a social person who never met a stranger and loved sharing stories.
James was preceded in death by his parents; Leslie Carmon and Augusta Amelia (Gunderson) Chandler, his loving wife; Mary Bell Chandler, his brothers; Carmon Chandler, Leslie Chandler, Stafford Chandler, Ansel Chandler, and William Irvine Chandler, and his son-in-law; Douglass James Bachman.
James is survived by his son; Bobby Steve Chandler, daughters; Janet Gail Alford, Mary Kaye Bachman, Rhonda Lois Muirhead and husband Darin, and Phyllis Lynn Chandler, grandchildren; Bobby Steve Chandler Jr, Elisha Ann Gaston, April Dawn Loera and husband Sam, Clinton Douglass Bachman, Jennifer Gail Czech and husband Steve, Keri Diane Brown, Brandon James Brown, great-grandchildren; Natalie Brook Janisch, Peyton Stephen Czech, Catherine Bailey Czech, and Heather Czech, Raegan Baugus, Erin Baugus, Hayden Matthews, Trenton Brown, great-great grandchildren; Nacona McCoy, Kip McCoy, Link Janisch, and Joseph Regan, brothers; Clifton Chandler and Gene Chandler, and sisters; Nellie Thomas and Melba (Roberts) Page. James also leaves behind many other loving family members and lifelong friends.