J.C. CHISM
May 16, 1943 – May 22, 2024
Born May 16, 1943, in Prentiss County, he was an active member of West Heights Baptist Church, the Forever Young Sunday School class and thoroughly enjoyed his service in the children’s nursery.
After graduation from Baldwyn High School, he chose to join the U.S. Marine Corp where he served as an aviation radio and radar reconnaissance tech.
Completing his military commitment, he returned home with plans to get his college education in pursuit of a career teaching math and coaching largely due to the influence of Doc and Mrs. Vandiver.
Children and their untapped potential drove him every day to set an example of hard work and achievement. The 33 1/2 years he spent coaching and teaching were his most cherished memories. His career as a school administrator, teacher and coach took him to the Starkville Public Schools, North Pontotoc, Ripley, and Shannon. He was a devoted husband, father, friend and the world’s greatest Papa. He lived larger than life and will be greatly missed by those who love him.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Teresa Chism; one son Chad Chism (Carla); granddaughters Morgan (Walter) Lyle and baby JoJo; Brooke (Sheffield) Anthony and the soon to arrive Mary Carson Anthony; sisters Sue (Joe) Little and Betty (William) Floyd; brothers Kenneth (Carol) Chism, Jessie (Rosemary) Chism, Mitch (Tammy) Chism and Bill (Brenda) Chism; long-time friend Don Bryson (Annie) and special caregiver Reba Lipsey.
He was preceded in death by son Adam Chism; his parents, Jessie and Dewdrop Chism; brothers J.W., Leroy, Dewey, Charles, David (Bo), and Jackie Chism.
Memorials may be given to the Bible Teachers Fund or Sanctuary Hospice in Tupelo, MS.
Services are scheduled at West Heights Baptist Church with visitation Friday from 5-8:00 pm and Saturday from 3-4:00 pm with services immediately following. Dr. David Hamilton will officiate. Burial will follow in Pontotoc Memorial Gardens. Baldwin Memorial Funeral Home of Pontotoc is in charge of arrangements.
