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Anthony Patrick Chandler

2/4/1932 - 9/9/2023

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Obituary For Anthony Patrick Chandler

In Loving Memory of Anthony Patrick "Hap" Chandler

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Hap Chandler, a beloved member of our community. Hap peacefully departed this world on September 9, 2023, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Born on February 4, 1932, in Haverhill, MA, Hap was a man of unwavering dedication to his family. He was a loving husband, married to his cherished wife, Gail Chandler, for an astounding 67 years. Together, they built a strong foundation of love, trust, and commitment that served as an inspiration to all who knew them. Hap's children, Karen (Rhett) Bray, Phillip (Sue) Chandler, Bruce (Crystal) Chandler, and Craig (Beth) Chandler, were the pride and joy of his life. His eight grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren brought him immense happiness and filled his days with laughter and love.

Hap's commitment to service extended beyond his family, as he proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 35 years. Rising to the rank of Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Parachute Rigger Chief, Hap exemplified honor, bravery, and loyalty. He served on various naval vessels and stations, including NAS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, USS Independence CVA-62, VR-1 NAS Norfolk, VA, USS Forrestal CV-54, USS John F. Kennedy, and COMTACSUPWING One NAS Norfolk, VA. Following his military service, Hap continued to contribute to the defense of our nation by working at the Naval Air Rework Facility (NARF) from 1986 to 1996, where he meticulously packed parachutes for F-14 Tomcat fighter jets.

Outside of his military duties, Hap found solace in supporting his family and engaging in his favorite pastimes. He took great pride in attending his children's, grandchildren's and great-grandchildren's sporting events and other endeavors. Hap had a deep appreciation for classic movies, finding joy in the nostalgia they brought. He also enjoyed immersing himself in a good book, challenging his mind with puzzles and cooking his favorite dishes. Hap was involved in various organizations and held office in most, including the Ocean View Clubs' five families, the Fleet Reserve Association-Club 60, VFW 3160, Knights of Columbus, American Legion, and the Democratic and Social Club.

Services to honor Hap's life will be held on Friday, September 22, 2023 at 2:00, at the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, VA. Following the service, a reception will be held at the Fleet Reserve Association Club-60 from 4:00-7:00, 9601 1st View Street, Norfolk, VA., where family and friends can gather to share cherished memories and support one another during this time of loss.

Hap Chandler will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His legacy of love, dedication, and service will forever be remembered and held close to our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery.

Simply Cremation is assisting his family. Online condolences may be expressed at SimplyCremationOnline.com.

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  • 03/23/2024

    John "Jack" Joyce

    I just happened to think of Anthony Patrick Chandler, and looked him up on Google and seen that he had passed away. I met him in Boot Camp Company 212 Great Lakes IL, In July 1950, he had been in quite awhile but always something happened like illness and he would be sent back to start Boots all over again, by the time he got to our Company he was a seasoned vet in almost a year. When it came for our final inspection before graduating boot camp he helped me fold all my clothes in the Navy you rolled all your clothes, and tied them with a close stop. The chief would come through and take one of your clothes and throw on the bunk and it better bounce, no one could fold clothes like Chandler after graduating from Boots in Sept. 1950 we separated I went into the Destroyer Fleet and he went into the Naval Air Force saw him on one of our shakedown cruises to GTMO he was stationed there. One time my wife, sister-in-law, brother-in-law and I met him at a dance in NJ he was then stationed at Lakehurst Naval Air Station in NJ this was around 1957, and he indicated then he was going to make it a career. Never remember him being called Hap. He used to say "I am Anthony Patrick Chandler from Haverhill, MA I'm rough tough and hard to bluff." It was a shame we didn't keep in touch he was a great friend and always had a smile on his face. John "Jack" Joyce former Jersey Boy but for the past 27 + years have been living in Florida

  • 10/29/2023

    Cindy Culpepper

    I just heard about Hap and I'm so sorry for your loss. He was a good friend to many people, and I don't think he ever met a stranger in his life. He will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers to the family. Cindy Culpepper

  • 10/17/2023

    Judith Ney White

    I'm so very sorry that I'm just learning of Chief Chandler's passing. I was stationed with him at CONTACSUPWING ONE as a young Seaman. I adored him. He would come into the Admin Office pretty much every day and greet me with "Hi ya Slug" in his thickest Bostonian accent and I would reply "Hi ya Kid!". Sometimes we'd say it the other way around. I never saw him in a bad mood or rattled and no matter how bad a day I was having, seeing him made it a better. I take it back. I did see him rattled once. We went on an inspection in Puerto Rico and several of us were able to take a helo to one of the Virgin Islands one day. On the way back, he put me in this belt so that I could stand and look out. The pilot took the opportunity to rapidly loose altitude and I all but passed out. Chief got me out of the belt and back to my seat. Once he knew I was OK, he ripped the pilot a new one. The guy is probably still looking for his behind. I made Chief when I was stationed in Spain in 1988. All through my initiation and ceremony, I thought of Chief Chandler and wished he could have been there. By the time we got back to the states and Facebook was created, he no longer remembered me. That's ok. I'll always remember him. I wish you all comfort and peace in your special memories of him. God Bless. Judith Ney White LNC-USN-Ret

  • 09/26/2023

    Bob Boyd

    Hap was special to so many of us, I will miss him as a friend and the way we always greeted one another and talked about family. I am sorry I was out of the country and could not attend .Bob Boyd

  • 09/16/2023

    Magali Skeldon

    Wishing you peace knowing how much Hap was adored and honored. Our prayers and hearts are with you. Tim & Maggie Skeldon

  • 09/15/2023

    Kim kerns

    Hap will truly be missed, what a wonderful man! My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family..I'm so very sorry for your loss.:-(

  • 09/15/2023

    Lori and Trip

    Praying for the family. Hap had the most amazing attitude. Loved his stories of his military travels.

  • 09/14/2023

    Patty & Mike Fuller

    What a beautiful tribute to a man that filled the room with love & joy. Rest in peace Hap. ❤️

  • 09/14/2023

    Bobby & Angie Hall

    God bless this family. We are praying over you all. Love, Bobby and Angie Hall

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