Willard Edward Chastain

Willard Edward Chastain, known fondly as "Butch," passed away on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Tift Regional Medical Center in Tifton, Georgia. Born on March 28, 1949, in Blue Ridge, Georgia, he lived a life marked by dedication, skill, and a unique spirit that distinguished him from the ordinary.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, May 29, 2026 in the chapel of Albritton Funeral Directors with Rev. Trevor Ward officiating and military honors being rendered. Interment will follow at Barker Plantation Family Cemetery, 209 Ross Road, Tifton, Ga. 31793. The family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:30 at the funeral home before the service.

Kyle Barker, Kasey Barker and Tucker Parrish will serve as pallbearers.

Butch's journey was one of service and passion. He proudly served his country in The United States Army during the Vietnam era where his sharp-shooting skills were as notable as his commitment. Following his military service, he devoted himself to the safety of others as a Gwinnett County Fire Fighter. On his days off, he applied his technical expertise as an A and P aircraft mechanic, merging his love for flying and mechanics seamlessly, along with being a certified flight instructor.

Education played a significant role in Butch’s life. He graduated in 1969 from Central Gwinnett High School and further pursued his studies at Dekalb Junior College, earning a commercial artist degree. His intellectual curiosity and pride extended to his interest as a historian with a vast personal library, a testament to his deep appreciation of history and heritage as he was a member of The Sons of Confederate Veterans.

Butch was a man of many interests and hobbies that reflected his zest for life. He delighted in gardening, metal detecting, beekeeping, and was never without his camera, forever capturing moments. His love for flying never waned, and he cherished time spent outdoors gold panning and enjoying his beloved tractors. Family gatherings often saw him spoiling his nieces and nephews with affection and generous spirit. Beach trips, especially to Panama City Beach, were among his favorite memories and a source of great joy.

He is survived by his beloved sister Kathy Chastain; nephews Kyle Barker and his wife Ansley, Kasey Barker and his wife Casey, and Adam Worthington; nieces Missy Matz and Julie Brooks along with her husband Tony; as well as great-nephews Jackson Pendley and Wyatt Barker, and great-niece Allison Barker. His aunt, Loraine Millsaps, affectionately known as Aunt Punk, also survives him. These family members carry forward his legacy and cherish the indelible mark he left on their lives.

Willard Edward "Butch" Chastain was preceded in death by his father, Warren Edward Chastain; mother, Etta Marie Kyle Chastain; sister, Linda Worthington; and brother, Timothy Chastain. Their memories, along with his, form the foundation of a family history he held dear.

Willard Edward Chastain was not the average man. His life was marked by dedicated service, rich personal pursuits, and deep familial bonds.

Flowers will be accepted or donations made to American Cancer Society, PO Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK. 73102 or American Cancer Society.

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements.