Sarah Jean Ray Chandler

Mrs. Sarah Jean Ray Chandler, 88, of Calhoun Falls Highway, Elberton, wife of 56 years to the late Raymond Edgar Chandler, passed away on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at her residence.

At Mrs. Sarah’s request, a graveside service will be conducted on Wednesday, January 29, at 2:00p.m. in the Middleton Methodist Church cemetery with the Rev. Scott Mize officiating. 

Mrs. Chandler was born in McDuffie County on August 27, 1936, daughter of the late Charles Emmett Ray and Evilue McCarthy Ray. Along with her husband and parents, she is predeceased by her siblings: Ruby Dell Ray Chafin, Charles Wesley Hester, Leon Webster “Len” Ray, and two infant brothers. Surviving are her children: Charles Raymond “Ray” Chandler and Rochelle Marie Chandler Simpson and her husband William, all of Elberton; and three granddaughters: Shelby Jean Gaines, Mary Elizabeth Gaines, and Brooke Allison Gaines. 

Mrs. Sarah was a 1954 graduate of Oglethorpe County High School and learned a strong work ethic as a child doing farm chores. She worked many jobs throughout her life, but is most remembered as the operator of Chandler’s Store in the Pearl Mill Community, which she operated for 18 years next to her husband’s business, Chandler’s Garage. Mrs. Chandler is also remembered from her 28-year tenure as a bus driver and paraprofessional within the Elbert County School District.

She was a longtime member of Middleton Methodist Church where she served as pianist for many years. Although unable to read music, she was blessed to be able to play by ear and did so beautifully. Sarah worked for 48 years as poll manager during elections, serving at both Longstreet and Ruckersville polls. She was a former member of the Pulliam-Burton VFW Post 5456 Ladies Auxiliary where she served as president multiple times. 

Flowers are accepted and contributions may be made in her memory to the Middleton Methodist Church Ladies Circle, c/o Shirley Hill, 1529 Middleton Church Road, Elberton, GA 30635.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at berryfh.com. 

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mrs. Sarah Jean Ray Chandler.