Dave Leslie Chesson, Sr., 75, Orangefield

Dave Leslie Chesson, Sr., 75, passed away Tuesday, July 10, 2024, at Baptist Hospital, in Beaumont, Texas. He was born April 16, 1949, in Orange, Texas, to Gloria Mae Roberts Chesson and Clyde Mitchell Chesson. Family, friends, and others are invited to visitation at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange on Saturday, July 20, 9-10 a.m. to reminisce and honor the life of Dave Leslie Chesson, Sr. Funeral services will immediately follow. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Garden Cemetery. Rick White officiating.

He was a proud resident of Orangefield, Texas, and was a 1968 graduate of Bridge City High School. He married Charolette Morrow on October 25, 1968, in Bridge City, Texas.

In his early years, Dave worked at Owens-Illinois Paper Mill in Orange, Texaco Refinery in Port Arthur, and later, for years, enjoyed owning and operating C & C Pawn Shop in Vidor, Texas. He was knowledgeable, respectful, and considerate when dealing with customers. He could often be found repairing jewelry or guns with the oldies, or praise and worship music, playing in the background. In retirement, he could be found tinkering with anything and helping everyone.

More than anything, Dave adored his wife and family. His biggest passions were motorcycles, antique sports cars, and outdoor adventures with them that involved camping, boating, or church. He was a devoted Christian who attended Christian Fellowship Church in Beaumont, Texas. He believed and lived by the adage, "Love God, Love People, Change the World." 

He always had the ability to make people smile with his unique sense of humor and exceptional style. Dave cherished his family and was happiest with them nearby, especially if it meant a little chocolate and/or cocoa was involved.  

He is survived by his wife, Charolette; son, Dave Chesson, Jr. (Karen); and daughter, Krissy Reese; eleven grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Clary Mitchell Chesson and wife, Barbara, and his son-in-law, Troy Lynn Robinson.