Wiley Lew Chandler

Wiley Lew Chandler, affectionately known as “Lew” or “Tuffy” to his friends and family, was born on February 8, 1932, and passed away on October 2, 2026, at the age of 94.

Lew married the love of his life, Margaret Carol (Eason), on May 1, 1954. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, service, and a deep and enduring love for one another.

A proud graduate of the University of Florida, Lew earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He remained a devoted alumnus and enthusiastic supporter of his beloved Florida Gators throughout his life.

Lew was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, godfather, uncle, brother, and friend. Yet, to those who loved him, he was so much more than any title could express. He was someone to look up to, someone to learn from, someone to admire, and someone who could always be counted on. He was an anchor for his family and a steady source of strength, wisdom, and encouragement for everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A hardworking, generous, and compassionate man, Lew had a remarkable gift for helping others. Whether offering guidance with a complicated mathematical or engineering problem, sharing his knowledge of history, helping someone think through an investment, or simply finding a reason to laugh, he gave freely of his time and talents. He believed in hard work, focused living, and leaving behind a meaningful legacy. Through his words and actions, he taught those around him the value of generosity, kindness, and making the most of the life we are given.

Lew was a natural teacher who delighted in sharing what he knew. His interests in engineering, mathematics, and history reflected a sharp mind and a lifelong love of learning. He was never afraid to help someone work through a difficult problem and was always willing to offer his knowledge and skills to those who needed them. He taught his son to fish and throw a football, and he taught his grandchildren to laugh, love, share, and recognize the importance of generosity. His lessons extended far beyond the things he knew; they were lessons in how to live.

Family was at the center of Lew's world. He and Carol traveled across the country to be present for weddings, funerals, graduations, and other important family celebrations. They spent weekends helping others and teaching in the church, faithfully giving their time and energy wherever they were needed. Lew understood that love was demonstrated through presence, service, and the willingness to show up when it mattered most.

Lew was hardworking and strong, yet gentle and loving. He was always there for Carol, his family, his neighbors, his colleagues, and his friends. His generosity knew few limits, and his compassion touched people from all walks of life. Those who knew him were blessed not only by his wisdom but also by his willingness to listen, encourage, teach, and help in whatever way he could.

He also had a special love for animals, particularly his beloved Shelty, Charlie, and Mau-Mau. His affection for them reflected the same tender heart and caring spirit he shared with the people in his life.

Lew's love for Carol was a beautiful example to those around them. He reminded his family of something simple yet profoundly important: always give a hug and say, “I love you,” every day. It was a lesson he lived, and one his loved ones will carry with them forever.

To say Lew was loved would be an understatement. To say he will be missed would be an even greater one. His family has been blessed to share in a wonderful life filled with laughter, learning, adventure, and countless memories. His influence will continue through the generations he helped shape, the people he encouraged, and the many lives made better by his kindness and generosity.

Though losing him is one of life's most difficult experiences, his loved ones can take comfort in knowing that the legacy he leaves behind is one of love, faith, wisdom, service, and generosity. The lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave will remain treasured gifts for all who knew him.

As his family remembers Lew today, they look forward to the day they will be reunited with him in Heaven, where he will once again greet them with the love and warmth that made him so special.