Gary Herbert Chaffin, Jr.

Gary Herbert Chaffin, Jr.

Gary Herbert Chaffin, Jr., 53, of Bridge City, (he had also lived in Sabine Pass for many years as well), passed away peacefully on October 28, 2024. We were not ready for him to leave us but we all know as a family when he took his last breath he was in the arms of Jesus. Gary had a personal relationship with Jesus. In 1999 Gary gave his life to Christ and was saved, and baptized, and started his journey as a follower of Jesus. Through many times in his life as an older adult he faced many health challenges. Throughout it all he trusted in the Lord to give him strength. He knew that the Lord had him and his family. During this time of uncertainty Gary grew stronger and stronger in his faith. He shared the gospel with many every day through bible verses. Many of the verses spoke to his own heart and he always wanted others to know how Jesus could change you if you would accept him in your heart and have a relationship with him. God was preparing Gary many years ago through his faith in Jesus. Gary loved listening to his girls sing. He was so proud they were all serving Jesus and singing for the Lord. He would always say “Teri look at them, those are our girls.” 

Born in Springfield, Missouri on April 8, 1971, he was the son of Gary Herbert Chaffin Sr. and Shirley Filla Kitchens. Gary was a dedicated and skilled Boilermaker who worked many years in the refineries. He also worked at the Shrimp dock and drilling rigs. He had many certifications for rigging in the refinery, exemplifying a strong work ethic and commitment to his career. Gary had an undeniable passion for life that was reflected in his hobbies and interests. He had a special love for trucks, particularly custom lowered trucks, which spoke for his appreciation for craftmanship. Alongside this he had a deep appreciation for music systems in his custom trucks. Through the years that enhanced moments spent with family and friends. 

Every Sunday, he looked forward to watching church with his wife by his side and watching the football games alongside his dad. A tradition that reinforced their bond and shared that love for football and Raiders Fans. They both would sport their Raiders attire, often together. 

Gary was a devoted husband and father. Everyday Gary thanked his wife for taking such great care of him through the years and giving him so much love and anything he wanted, even if he was hungry late at night and wanted a special treat. You could always see the love Gary and Teri had for each other as they both took care of each other throughout their marriage.

Gary was a proud and thankful dad. He loved being involved in everything the girls did. Even when he worked out of town, he made sure to let them know he was so proud of them. It was a time of big hugs and smiles every time he would come home from work and even maybe a Wal-Mart trip to treat his girls. From dance recitals, choir concerts, church programs, football games, Gary loved it all and was so proud of his girls. Whether it was attending their performances or sharing a cozy movie night at home, his role as a provider and confidant was central to who he was. 

Gary gave excellent advice and made it a priority to ensure that everyone around him felt cared for, loved, and supported. Gary leaves behind a legacy filled with loved, dedication, and cherished memories that will continue to resonate within the hearts of those who knew him. He will be remembered for his warmth, giving heart, his passions and especially for the immeasurable love he had for his family and friends. Gary loved big and was so proud of his son in law Jacob. He knew he would gain three sons in laws one day and he was looking forward to that and all the grandbabies to follow. He said he would spoil them and send them home. 

He is preceded in death by his “Nano” his favorite, Wanda Jean Chaffin. His Nano had a special part in his life who had helped raise him and always told him that he was hers, and other grandparents in his life that loved him, and Gary loved them. Uncle Eddie Chaffin and Uncle Donnie Wolfford; Stepdad, Wayne Rigney; who all meant a lot to Gary, and his beloved dogs Holly and Buddy. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Teri Chaffin; his parents, Gary Chaffin, SR. and Shirley Kitchens and her husband Rick; his daughters, Chelsey Hryhorchuk and husband Jacob, Breanne Chaffin and Chandler Chaffin; his grand dogs, Bryant and Laker and his furbaby Macy who sat by him to get treats. His sister, Stephanie Hargrove; father and mother-in-law, Tommy and Linda Wolfford; sister and brother-in-law, Nathan and Traci Birmingham; nephews, Garret, Gage, and Gavin Birmingham; his “Brothers” he worked and traveled with and numerous other loving family members and friends that Gary always appreciated and loved.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Redemption Church Building fund at 601 Park St., Beaumont, Texas 77701 or to Rise Center for Independent Living (They help people with disabilities) at 755 South 11St. Suite 213, Beaumont, Texas, 77701. 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Jhett and Ruby Morgan for being dedicated caring physicians through the years for Gary, and a special thank you to Gary’s nurse, Angelica and his CNA Linda, both of whom he gave gold stars. 

At the request of Gary, cremation will be held under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Redemption Church at 601 Park St. Beaumont, Texas, 77701, at 2:00 p.m.

Gary loved the Raiders football team and the color blue, so if you would like please wear your favorite of these colors. 

Isaiah 41:10 – Fear not, for I am with you: be not dismayed for I am your GOD: I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.