Obituary of Lonnie Chambers

     Lonnie Chambers, Jr. was born May 2, 1951, in Queens, New York to Lonnie Chambers, Sr. and Hattie Griffin. They welcomed his arrival into the world where he established his place as the second child of four siblings, Ellen Jean, Alfonso and Florence.

    Lonnie spent his early years in Brooklyn and possessed a friendly personality and a love for music. He was always happy and could light up a room in seconds. In 1961 he left New York and moved to Norfolk Virginia with his mother and siblings. He attended Campostella Junior High School. Boys will be boys, and his rambunctious spirit caused his mother to make a decision to send him back to New York to live with his father.

     Upon his return to New York, Lonnie, or “Chambers” to some immediately started looking for employment and on July 31, 1969, he became gainfully employed at Pilgrim State Hospital where he remained for 38 years. In addition, he was a jack of all trades. He was a stylish dresser, fisherman, hunter, DJ, dancer and full of life. He loved people but especially sought to encourage children and young men, who he counseled and discussed African American history and their ethnic roots.

Backgammon was a passion in his free time and he would challenge anyone to a game, but more than anything in the world he loved food, cooking, fun and laughter. He had a signature laugh that was contagious and magically lifted the spirits of everyone in his presence.

      As his life evolved, Lonnie met Fay, his life partner, and to the union God blessed them with Kara, a beautiful daughter, who brought life, Joy and pleasure to the family. His pet name for her is “Hot Shot”. Additionally, his love extended to Irene who he raised as his own.

      Lonnie always knew the Lord from his youth and later in life he developed a personal relationship with God that transferred to others. He taught Sunday School, prayed with others, and witnessed to anyone that would listen. Deacon Lonnie Chambers, Jr. was ordained on August 23, 2015, under the leadership of Bishop Allen at the Revelation Church of God in Christ and he was a true soldier in the army of the Lord. He fought a good fight, finished the course, kept the faith and is now receiving his reward in Heaven.

     Deacon Lonnie Chambers Jr. leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Fay Chambers; two daughters Kara Smith and Irene Anderson, Son-in-law Jayson Smith (Roc); Grandchildren; Jayson Smith, Jr., Ellis Smith, Kennedy Anderson and Madison Anderson; siblings Ellen Jean Chambers, Alfonzo Chambers and Florence Thomas-Grimes (Clarence); In-laws Ray Walker (Lillie Bell), Milton Walker (Nancy), Cornelius Walker, Sammy Walker (Suzie), Alma Lawson, Lucille Rufus (David), Priscilla Wilson, Mary Alice Grove, Wylinda Walker, Sharon Walker; and very devoted friend, Ronald Bolar, and a host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Friends.