Milton Lee Chidester

Milton Lee Chidester, age 77, of Gastonia, NC, passed away peacefully Tuesday, May 22, 2018, at Liberty Lane Hospice House in Salisbury NC.

He was born in Dobson, NC on March 29, 1941. After completing his education, he proudly served in the US Air Force where he traveled the world. Eventually settling in Charlotte, NC in 1970. Milton spent the rest of his professional career as a self-employed contractor. He was a proud Christian man who was deeply rooted in his faith. Knowing no stranger, he would be the first to extend grace and generosity on to anyone in need. His faith fueled his love for writing and singing gospel music, where he found much joy. Milton was best known for his very loud and infectious personality. His greetings “Hey boy” and “Hey darling” were always heard long before he was seen, and his laugh would echo long after it ended. He would often be found sitting on his swing, with his precious dog Elle in his lap, admiring his knockout roses.

He was preceded in death by his parents Russell and Mildred Chidester and brother William Chidester.

Milton is survived by his son, David Chidester; daughter Misti Long and husband Frank; son Geoffrey Chidester and wife Ashley; son Phillip Chidester and wife Sarah; Mother of his four children Brenda Hyland; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; sisters, Jere Chidester and Hilda Poole and brother, Charles Chidester and wife Nancy.

Visitation will be held at Landmark Church, 1910 Mooresville RD., Salisbury, NC 28147, Wednesday, May 30 12-1 p.m. with a brief service to follow.

Burial will be held at Salisbury National Cemetery, 501 Statesville Blvd., Salisbury, NC 28144, at 2 p.m.

A celebration of life service will take place on Saturday, June 2, beginning at 12 p.m. at Harvest Church, 7429 Tuckaseegee Rd, Charlotte, NC 28214. All are welcome to bring a covered dish and join the family in the fellowship hall immediately after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked memorials be made to Liberty Lane Hospice House, c/o W.G. “Bill” Hefner VA Medical Center, 1601 Brenner Avenue, Salisbury, NC 28144.

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