Richard Chavis

Richard Chavis, age 89, of Uvalda, Georgia, passed away peacefully on August 8th surrounded by the love of his family

Richard was born October 22, 1936, to the late Rev. Robert "Bob" Chavis and Myrtice Yawn Chavis. A lifelong South Georgian, he graduated from Jeff Davis County High School with the Class of 1955 and built a life defined by hard work, faith, family, and a love of the outdoors.Richard retired from Amercord in 1999 after nearly 16 years of dedicated service. He took great pride in his work and was known for his remarkable dependability, missing only a single day of work during his time there.To those who knew him best, Richard was happiest outdoors. He was a master gardener whose garden produced more than vegetables—it grew memories shared with family and friends. An accomplished hunter and fisherman, he spent countless hours pursuing deer, wild turkey and fishing. In his younger years he loved coon hunting with his beloved dogs and nephews. One of his proudest hunting accomplishments came in November 1968 when he harvested an extraordinary 30-point, 236-pound buck along the Ocmulgee River, a story that became part of family lore. Some of his best days were spent in Effingham County with family and his best friend Jack Carter, running dogs! “Richie Boy” was also known for his quick wit and playful spirit. He loved making people laugh and rarely met a family member who didn't receive one of his unique nicknames. His sense of humor, teasing smile, and gift for storytelling brought joy to every gathering and will be fondly remembered by all who loved him. Raised by his father, the late Rev. Robert “Bob” Chavis, a well-known and beloved Baptist minister, Richard was instilled with a strong Christian faith from an early age. He loved the Lord, kept God at the center of his life, and quietly lived out his faith through his kindness, humility, and devotion to his family.Above all else, Richard treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose love was shown through his steady presence, quiet strength, and willingness to help others. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra Powell Chavis; his sister-in-law, Lorene Powell; his sisters, Alice Parlor, Bonnie McLeod, Margaret Johnson, and Mildred Moon; and his brothers, David Chavis, James Chavis, and Joseph Chavis.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his brother, Cecil Chavis; his children, Angie Sellers and husband Ken, Tina Watson (Mike Yawn), and Tony Chavis; and his cherished grandchildren, Abby Sellers, Trey Sellers, Peyton Sellers, Megan Walker (Donnie), Jon Michael Watson (Hayleigh Hall) and Karlie Watson, Blake Chavis, Conner Chavis, Peedy Chavis, along with numerous great grands, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.Richard lived a long life filled with love, laughter, hard work, and unforgettable adventures. Whether tending his garden, sitting in a deer stand, casting a fishing line on the Altamha River or sharing a joke with those he loved, he made every day count. His legacy of faith, dedication, humor, and love for family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 14, 2026 at 11:00 am at the chapel of Swain Funeral Home in Hazlehurst with Rev. Alvin Merritt and Ken Sellers officiating. Interment will follow at the Uvalda City Cemetery.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Jimmy & Greta McLeod, Kenny & Linda Parlor, Steve & Mildred Sellers, and Art & Dale Reagin. 

Active pallbearers will be Ken Parlor, Mikey Kirkland, Ricky Johnson, Jeffery Chavis, Nash Murphy and Glen Kirkland.

Visitation will be Thursday, August 13, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 pm in the chapel of Swain Funeral Home Hazlehurst.

Arrangements are under the direction of Swain Funeral Home