Dates
SAN ANGELO – Wayland Dale Chandler, 83, went to Heaven on Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2014 at his home in San Angelo. He was born in April 15, 1931 in Stephenville, Texas to Jesse and Mary Chandler. He graduated from Goree High School in 1949, enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1951 and after a short military stint, moved to Los Angeles to pursue his love of music. He went on to be an accomplished singer and song writer. In 1958, he entered into a vocal contract with 4 Star Record Company, Inc. and wrote over 30 songs on the 4 Star Record label. He even came to know Patsy Cline as she recorded two of his songs that were on albums that reached RIAA Certified Gold. Wayland eventually found his way back to Texas, and finally finding something he loved more than music, he married Margrette Dupuy on November 19, 1969. They moved to San Angelo for good in 1980. Wayland went on to be a contractor with the United State Post Office, until he retired in 2003. In 2011, he was named a West Texas Music Pioneer by the West Texas Music Hall of Fame in appreciation of his musical contributions.
Wayland was full of love and never met a stranger. It was rare to see him without a smile and he loved laughing, singing and dancing. But above all, he loved the Lord and certainly wasn’t afraid to say it. He most enjoyed being together with his family and telling stories, for which he was truly gifted.
He was so very proud of his three children, Laila Chandler, Angie Reisner married to Gus Reisner, and Jeff Chandler married to Lori Chandler. He was amazed by his three grandchildren Presley Reisner, Georgia and Jackson Chandler and no one could make his pretty blue eyes light up brighter. Throughout his life, Wayland maintained a close relationship with his sister, Elaine Kiser, of whom he loved deeply. He also had a very special place in his heart for his nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
Preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Mary Chandler; sisters Helen Turnbow, Jo Luker and Jackie Sims.
Visitation with the family will take place on Thursday, November 6, 2014 at Robert Massie Funeral Home from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Funeral service and burial will be on Friday, November 7, 2014 at 11:00 a.m. at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens with Rev. Denise M. Bloomquist officiating.
The family would like to thank Dr. Raj Cheruku, Dr. James Studt, and all the amazing oncology staff at Shannon Medical Center. They are also incredibly grateful to Dustin Merriman, Casey, Barbara, Cynthia and all the angels with Gentiva Hospice.