Oliver Wendell Chandler was born on May 7, 1945 in Onancock, Va. to the late Francis “Frank” and Cecile V. (Hall) Chandler.
Oliver was a lifelong resident of Onancock and attended the local schools. He graduated from Mary N. Smith High School in 1963, and furthered his education becoming a licensed barber in 1964. Between 1974 and ’75 Oliver also received certification in Plumbing and Electrical from The Eastern Shore Community College.
He retired from Verizon in 1995 after 27 years of service. During his retirement years, he began Big O’s Lawn service, and also devoted time to his passion for gardening, as well as his love for fishing. He was active in his church, Bethel AME, where he proudly served as an Usher, Trustee, and a member of the Community Choir.
Oliver had many friends, but shared a special bond with his lifelong best friend and cousin, Addison “Junior” Matthews, whom he loved like a brother, and his wife Florence, whom Oliver also loved like a sister. He was affectionately known by friends as “Ollie”, “Tight-man”, “Gopher”, “Big-O”, and as “Popsy” by his granddaughter Jocelyn.
Oliver is survived by his loving wife, Helen Chandler, as well as his adoring daughters Ava and Lisa (James). He was also blessed with a step-daughter (Pandora), 5 grandsons (Job, Malcolm, El’Trevon, Jihad, and Jabril), 3 granddaughters (Jayla, Aaliyah and Jocelyn), a step-granddaughter (Tycora), as well as a host of cousins, extended family members, and cherished friends.
Oliver departed this life on December 14, 2020 in the comfort of his own home surrounded with the love of his wife, Junior & Florence, and his cousin Phyllis.
The family wishes to thank all persons who kept Oliver and his family in their prayers during this time.
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