Joseph Lee Chandler

Joseph Lee Chandler passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at the age of 54, after a brief, but brave struggle with cancer. Joe was a native Houstonian, born on February 11, 1965 in Sam Houston Hospital.  He was a graduate of Northbrook Senior High School, Class of 1983.  His love of learning returned him to the classroom later in life where he graduated from the University of Houston Downtown in 2007.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Eugene F. Chandler and Jessie R. Callison Chandler, both of West Virginia, and his beloved yellow labrador retriever, Sasha. He is survived by his “bride” of over 23 years, Elaine Wernecke Chandler and children, Victoria E. Kidwiler and Jonathan D. Baubie, as well as his son-in-law, Andrew M. Kidwiler, and sister, Dee Chandler Kohler.

Joe and Elaine met with the simple introduction of, “You have the most gorgeous beard I’ve ever seen.” He quickly asked her to dance, and her infamous response of, “I’d Love to” became a sweet memory of their meeting and a common response to him of her love. They were married shortly thereafter on April 24, 1996 at Hanalei Bay, Kauai Hawaii.  Joe Chandler not only chose to love Elaine, but her two small children, Victoria and Jonathan.  He was their father in every sense of the word, and everyone who knew him knows of his wonderful children.  They have made him proud every step of the way and are truly the legacy of the great man that he was.

Joe was an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting and fishing with his family and friends.  He especially enjoyed bow hunting with his son and making the trek to Missouri with his son-in-law.  He was a man who appreciated spending time with people he held dear in his life whether it be relaxing in the pool, playing cards, cruising or grilling and barbequing. Joe was blessed with and was surrounded by the best of friends throughout his entire life. “Papa Joe” simply loved everyone and people were drawn to his soft, caring voice, bright blue eyes, intelligence, and his solid conviction of goodness conveyed through a calm, yet strong demeanor.

Joe was a humble and hardworking man who could fix or better engineer whatever project he faced.  Joe was the definition of a handyman with a servant’s heart.  He often helped people without being asked or them even knowing of his deeds.  Whenever he saw a group of law enforcement having a meal, Joe paid the bill.  He was a Lifetime Member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and volunteered on several different committees, most recently serving as Vice Chairman of the Membership Committee.  He also loved volunteering with K-9 Angels Rescue and believed strongly in their mission to clear the shelters of Harris County thru spay and neuter.

The world was simply a better place with Joe in it. He is gone but never will he be forgotten, leaving his loving memories in all of hearts forever. 

The family would like to thank Grace Hospice of Texas, who worked diligently to give Joe comfort and peace in his final hours.

Friends are cordially invited to gather with the family for a Celebration of Life on December 1, 2019 at Cypress Fairbanks Funeral Home, 9926 Jones Road, Houston, TX 77065.   The family will greet friends from 12pm to 2pm with the service starting at 2pm. Immediately following the service, the family will share memories of Joe at the home of Joe and Elaine Chandler.  Everyone is welcome.  In lieu of customary remembrances, and for those desiring, the family suggests contributions in memory of Joe Chandler to be directed to K-9 Angels Rescue, 1215 W. 19th Street, Houston, TX 77008.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph Lee Chandler, please visit our floral store.