W.D. “Dub” Chandler

W.D. “Dub” Chandler, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026, at the age of 96. Born on February 9, 1929, in Coahoma, Texas, Dub led a life marked by hard work, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family and community.

Dub was the cherished son of William Davenport Chandler and Mary Etta Bradshaw Chandler. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Etta Mary Chandler, father, William Davenport Chandler, and two wives, Lola Chandler and Vivian Chandler. His legacy continues through his surviving family, including his daughter Sandy Louder and her husband Johnny, son David Chandler and his wife Marjorie, daughter Tracy Rybolt, sister Leona Jenkins, and eight grandchildren, along with twenty great-grandchildren who will carry forward his spirit and values.

Dub’s journey through life was nothing short of remarkable, taking over the family farming at the young age of twelve. He graduated from Courtney School, where his passion for agriculture flourished. He was an active participant in 4-H, where he exhibited calves, winning numerous livestock show titles, including those at prestigious events like the Fort Worth, El Paso, and Sandhills shows. Dub’s early employment at the Tarzan Gin and Wolcott Gin laid the foundation for a lifelong career in the farming industry, epitomizing his unmatched work ethic and dedication to providing for his family. During the challenging drought years, he took on carpentry work in Midland and contributed to building gas plants in the area.

Dub’s personal life was equally rich and fulfilling. He married Lola on August 5, 1950, and they enjoyed 42 years of marriage before her passing. He later married Vivian Saunders, sharing 32 years of love and companionship until the end of her life. His devotion to his wives was a testament to the deep love he held for his family.

A man of many interests, Dub was not only a hardworking farmer but also a passionate pilot, taking to the skies for the last time on his 96th birthday. He and Mr. Gordon Stone flew for many hours and shared many stories as they traversed the skies. Lola enjoyed being his copilot and always wanted to learn to land the plane in case something ever happened to Dub. She never landed the plane, always asking Dub to take over and get them home.  He cherished the camaraderie of many of his friends, most recently enjoying countless coffee sessions with buddies Devry Kidd, and Sonny Johnson. Wade Turner and Dub shared coffee over the course of more than fifty years. He and Vivian traveled extensively, creating memories that enriched their lives. Vivian and Dub enjoyed each other’s company and the stories they shared about their travels made for laughs and precious memories for them and all their families.

Dub was deeply respected in his community; known as an honest and kind-hearted man whose word was as good as gold. His Christian values shone brightly in all his interactions, and he was admired for his patience and gentle demeanor—many could attest that he never raised his voice or lost his temper, embodying the qualities of a true gentleman.

The family will hold visitation on Thursday, January 29, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 PM at Gilbreath Funeral Home. Dub’s funeral service will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Evergreen Cemetery, where family and friends will gather to celebrate his life and legacy. As we bid farewell to Dub, we remember a man who not only worked tirelessly to provide for his family but also instilled in them the values of love, kindness, and perseverance.

W.D. “Dub” Chandler leaves behind a legacy that will be cherished forever, a life well-lived, and a family who will always carry his memory in their hearts.

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