Chester Columbus Gill

Chester Columbus Gill 1926 - 2025 Chester Columbus Gill, age 99, passed peacefully into glory at The Claiborne Assisted Living Facility with family by his side on August 13, in McComb.

He was born the youngest of 7 siblings in Franklin County, and received his primary and secondary education at the Independence High School in McCall Creek, from which he graduated in 1943.

He was a World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946. After his military service he attended Southwest MS Junior College, during which time he met and married his wife, the former Elaine McMillan. He was a resident of Metairie, LA for over 50 years, and retired after a distinguished 46 year career with B.F. Goodrich in the Southeastern region.

During his time with B.F. Goodrich he lived in various cities as required for work, but throughout his life, no matter where he called home, he was a faithful member of his place of worship there. These include his home church, Concord Baptist Church in McCall Creek, Parkview Baptist Church in Metairie, where he served as deacon, and Gillsburg Baptist Church.

Born to a humble farming family, Chester lived nearly a century filled with profound experiences. He leaves behind a legacy of dignity, modesty, and quiet strength. He lived by a motto, which he carried printed in his wallet for decades, reminding him to “be self-controlled, worthy of respect, sensible, sound in faith, love and endurance, no slander, avoid conflict, be kind, and (to exhibit) gentleness to all people.” He embodied this motto in every way.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Mary Elaine McMillan Gill; parents George and Leona Howard Gill; his in-laws, Benton and Carrie Cutrer McMillan, who treated him as a son; as well as his 3 brothers and 3 sisters.

He is survived by a host of loving friends and family, including nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and nephews… and special friend Emmagene Walker Carter of Gillsburg.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the staffs of the Claiborne Assisted Living Facility, All At Home Personal Care and Respite Service, and Deaconess Hospice for their exemplary level of care and professionalism.

A funeral service to celebrate his life was held August 18, with Dr. Victor Walsh officiating. Visitation was from 9AM to 11AM at Hartman Jones Funeral Home in McComb. A graveside service and burial followed immediately after at Gillsburg Memorial Gardens.

Serving as pallbearers were nephews Dan Gill, Lee Gill, Wes Gill, Connor McMahon, Slaton Parker, and Corbin Smith. Honorary pallbearers were Donald Chase, Ken Hall, Ken Johnston, Jack Newton, Bernell Vercher, Dalton Williams, Jr., and Dennis Wilson.