Willie Leo Chester Jr., a beloved member of the Huntsville, Alabama community, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2025, at the age of 63. Willie was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend whose kind soul and generous spirit touched the lives of many.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sheila; his sons, William, and Andrew; daughter-in-law, Amy; and his cherished granddaughters, Raegan, Kaedyn, and Grayson. He also leaves behind his mother, Wyonda Hill; sister, Rhonda Cooper, and brother-in-law, Benny Cooper; sister, Dana Whitmore, and brother-in-law, Verlon Whitmore; brother, Keith Chester, and sister-in-law, Bonita Chester; brother, James Chester; as well as his Uncle Bill Hill, Uncle Joe Johnson, Aunt Jackie Johnson, and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

Willie was preceded in death by his father, Willie Leo Sr.; his brother, Don Chester; grandparents, Pete, and Corine Hill; and Aunt Esther Hill.

Life and Legacy

Willie was born and raised in Garland, Texas, under the watchful eye of his grandparents, who helped to shape his deep faith and exemplary work ethic. Willie graduated from Garland High School, where he met and later married his high school sweetheart. Willie was very ambitious, worked diligently to master the new technologies, and later graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from DeVry University.

From a young age, Willie embraced his belief in Christ, finding strength and purpose in his faith. He gave his life to Christ at an early age and carried his faith with him throughout his life. He was a kind and generous friend, always willing to help others in need. If he had the ability to assist someone, he did so without hesitation. His welcoming spirit made his home a place of warmth and friendship, where many found comfort, southern hospitality, and acceptance.

His deep faith and love of family must have been what shaped his kindness, uncommon generosity, and humor that touched the lives of all who knew him.  He had a wonderful community of friends and colleagues in Northern Virginia where he and Sheila lived for many years before moving to Huntsville, Alabama.

During his illness, Willie found peace in his favorite scripture, Isaiah 43:2:

"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze."

Willie had a deep faith, and was a member of the Grace Covenant Church in Fairfax, VA for several years before relocating to Huntsville, AL.

Career and Passion

Willie mastered and dedicated his career to Configuration Management for over 25 years, where he was widely respected for his expertise, leadership, and mentorship.

Interests and Community Involvement

A passionate sports fan, Willie loved basketball and was a devoted supporter of the Dallas Cowboys. His love for the game extended beyond being a fan—he actively coached basketball from elementary to high school and in AAU leagues, positively influencing many young athletes.
Personal Qualities and Legacy

Known for his uncommon generosity, wisdom, kindness, and humor, Willie was deeply respected and touched the lives of many people around him. Willie will be remembered for his profound listening skills, and for providing sound advice to family, friends, colleagues, and associates.  A memorable quote he often used with his sons, William, and Andrew, was: "Is it a want or a need?", a testament to his practical wisdom and guidance.
Celebration of Life

A private celebration of life will be held for immediate family in North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Willie Leo Chester Jr. to one of the following organizations:

National Scleroderma Foundation
American Cancer Society (Donate Here)
American Heart Association (Donate Here)
Willie will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, wisdom, faith, and kindness will live on in all who knew him.