Herman Donald "Don" Chandler, 94, of Pensacola, FL passed away Sunday, July 20, 2025.

Don was born on August 9, 1930, in Opp, AL to Minnie (Crosby) and George Alex Chandler. He joined the United States Air Force where he served his country for 30 years obtaining the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. After his military career, Don worked over 20 years with the Civil Service, retiring as Chief Spectrum Manager. He received his master's degree from the University of the Philippines at Clark Air Force Base and continued his education towards his Doctorate at Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines. Many of the hobbies Don enjoyed were Amateur Radio, where he communicated with other amateur radio operators around the world from different locations. He enjoyed gardening, planting various vegetables and fruit trees, beekeeping, raising chickens and ducks for eggs, and raising tilapia. Don loved playing the harmonica, music, dancing, as well as building computers. He was a member of several organizations which include Amateur Radio Club, Over 50 Ballroom Dance Club, Lions Club in the Philippines, Shriners in the Philippines, and the American Legion in the Philippines.

Don had a zest for life and a wonderful sense of humor. He was a jack of all trades and had a generous heart and warm personality. Most of all, Don loved his family dearly.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, James and John Chandler; sisters, Lucille Williamson and Jaunese Emmons.

Don is survived by his wife of 52 years, Purisima Chandler; son Michael Chandler (Alison); daughter, Donna Chandler Maez (Ben); son, Lennon Chandler (Nancy); daughter, Teresa Chandler Denker (Jake); daughter, Juleah Chandler-Trimm (Cody); grandchildren, Eric Chandler, Kevin Chandler, Emma Chandler, Lennon Chandler Jr., and Dominic Denker; sister, Effie Akins; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Visitation will be held from 10:00am until a Funeral Mass is celebrated at 11:00am, Friday, August 1, 2025, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, with Fr. Stephen Olson, celebrant. Burial will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery with full military honors.

Pallbearers will be Benjamin Maez, Lennon Chandler, Lennon Chandler Jr., Jake Denker, Cody Trimm, Michael Chandler, Michael Gibney, and William Fuentes.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital, www.stjude.org