Donald Richard Chambers

Donald Richard Chambers, 87, died peacefully on November 9, 2021 at his home in Midland, Texas surrounded by family.  He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, son, and friend, who was loved at all times, even while enduring his battle with cancer.

Don was born on June 13, 1934 in Liverpool, England, to parents Charles and Caroline Chambers. He graduated from Liverpool College of Technology with a degree in Mechanical and Electrical Engineering in July 1954. Upon graduation, he proudly served England through his two-year national service in the Royal Air Force (RAF).  Don later worked at his first job as an engineer on the construction of the Pfizer plant in Sandwich, England where he met his lovely wife, Pat. They married on April 13, 1957 in Walmer, England. Don and Pat had an adventurous life, living and working overseas in numerous countries including Iran, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Yemen, and Abu Dhabi before settling in the United States. Don loved his work as an engineer and construction manager and proudly worked on many projects including King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (Saudi Arabia), the United States Embassy (Yemen) and the Superconducting Super Collider near Waxahachie (Texas).

Don and Pat raised their three children, Jill, Laurie, and Michael while working in England and the Middle East. Don’s unconditional love for his family was evident throughout his entire life as he lived to provide support, guidance, and be an example for his daughter, sons, and grandchildren.

Don and Pat retired to the United States and moved to Midland, Texas in 2008. They quickly found Midland to be their new home where they were able to spend time with family and grandchildren. He was active in his community and was a member of First Christian Church. Don’s servant heart shone every day as he participated is his family’s activities and volunteered around Midland with Friends of Libraries and Literacy, City of Midland Aquatic Center, and Breaking Bread Kitchen.

Don enjoyed escaping the desert heat and loved spending a few months each year in Galveston and Colorado with his wife, Pat. He pursued his hobbies of marquetry, photography, drawing, and reading as passionately as he did his work. He stayed very active and fit as he frequently enjoyed skiing, tennis, running, and playing football (soccer) especially with his family. As a big fan of his hometown Liverpool Football Club, he kept up with every game, even in his final days.

Don was known as a hardworking, intelligent, life-long learner.  He had a gentle spirit and an inquisitive mind. He lived life in a dignified manner. When diagnosed with cancer just a few short months ago, he remained dedicated to his family. He was a brave, iron-willed gentleman, even throughout his final days. Don’s courage throughout his life and especially during his battle with cancer has been a testimony to his unwavering faith in the Lord. By God’s grace, we see Don’s strong character traits personified in all his children and grandchildren. Don will be missed by all but will live on through the lives of those who knew him.

Don is survived by his wife of 64 years, Pat Chambers; brothers Brian (Pat) and Alec Chambers of Southampton, England; daughter and son-in-law, Jill and Joe Wright; son and daughter-in-law, Laurie and Terri Chambers; son and daughter-in-law, Michael Chambers and Shelley Hutson; grandchildren, Matt and Sarah Wright, Katie and Chaney Coffman, Hannah Wright, Mollie Wright, Ashley Chambers, Reagan Chambers, Hailey Hutson, and Ashton Hutson; great grandchild, Parker Wright; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Charles and Caroline Chambers and sister-in-law, Pam Chambers.

Don requested to be cremated. A memorial celebration will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 at First Christian Church, 1301 W. Louisiana Ave, 79701, Midland, Texas. All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Christian Church, 1301 W. Louisiana Ave, Midland, Texas, 79701; the Midland Humane Coalition, 4206 W. Loop 250 Frontage Road North, Midland, Texas, 79707; or to MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, Texas, 77030.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland.  Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.