John W Chandler, III

John Whitaker Chandler of Sandersville, Georgia, went to be with his Heavenly Father on January 3, 2026, at the age of 84. He passed peacefully at home while surrounded by his family. John leaves an indelible impression on those who called him husband, daddy, papa, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. John's brilliant spirit, radiant smile, and compassionate heart captivated everyone who had the chance to know him.

A funeral service to celebrate John’s life will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Ridgeland Heights Baptist Church in Sandersville with burial following in Brownwood Cemetery. Reverend Frank Appel and Reverend Roger Holley will officiate. Steven Chandler, Reid Chandler, Brent Palmer, Joseph Chain, Travis Chain, William Archer and Jimmy Brown will serve as pallbearers. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

John was born on February 20, 1941 to Jack and Betty Chandler in Augusta, GA. John grew up in Augusta, Ga where he attended Richmond Academy. Following graduation from high school John served in the United States Marines. John was retired from Southern Bell.

John was preceded in death by his father, John (Jack} Chandler and mother Betty Odum Chandler. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather to nine wonderful grandchildren. John is survived by his loving wife Martha of 66 years and their three sons John (Kay), Ralph (Joanna), and Douglas (Tricia). Grandchildren: Anna (Brent) Palmer, Steven (Sarah) Chandler, Reid (Brittany) Chandler, Christy (Jorge) Rodriguez, Jessie Vittoe, Shelby (William) Archer, Daniel (Darcell) Chain, Joseph Chain, and Travis Chain. Great grandfather of fourteen: SPC Abbey Daniel- US Army (Germany), Dalton Palmer, Kaylee Chandler, Turner Chandler, Maddi Chandler, Elena Eubanks, RJ Eubanks, Gabriella Rodriguez, Carmen Rodriguez, Addy Vittoe, Austyn Vittoe, McKenna Archer, Isla Archer, and Serenity Chain. Also, sister Mary Reid Chandler, brother Frank (Hazel) Chandler, and treasured brother-in-law Tim (Pam) Pritchard, as well as many friends and extended family members who will miss him dearly. Also missing him is his beloved cat, Amos.

John’s passion for woodworking helped define who he was. He enjoyed spending time in his shop crafting various pieces of furniture and accessories.

John's passing has left an enormous hole in the lives of those who love him, but his legacy of love, service, and faith will carry on in the many lives he touched.

At the center of John's life was a deep faith in Jesus Christ. His faith was solidified in his youth while attending First Baptist Church in Augusta, GA where he accepted Christ as his personal Savior. He later joined Ridgeland Heights Baptist Church, where he enjoyed Bible study and served on the deacon board prior to his illness.

We find comfort in knowing that John’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to his caregivers Ashley, Beck, and Anna of Remarkable Hospice for their kindness, support, and care shown to John during his illness.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in John’s memory to Ridgeland Heights Baptist Church, the Sandersville Gideons, or the Davisboro Volunteer Fire Department.

Condolences may be made online at mayandsmithfuneraldirectors.com

May and Smith Funeral Directors is in charge of these arrangements.