Oscar Chambers Sr.'s Obituary
Oscar Franklin Chambers, Sr. was born on August 26th, 1931, to Blanche and Collie Chambers, Sr., in Chickasaw, Alabama. His journey through life was characterized by a deep sense of commitment and service to his country, his family, and his community.
In 1950, he joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served with honor for four years before his honorable discharge. Shortly thereafter, a casual encounter in Mobile, Alabama would lead Oscar to the love of his life, Angie Marie Chambers - with their union on November 7, 1955 setting the stage for a 68-year love story.
In 1965, as a civilian contractor for the United States military, Oscar, Angie, and their four children—Oscar Jr, Sebrena, Andreta, and Owen—relocated to Tacoma, Washington, following his assignment at McCord Air Force Base. This pivotal year also marked the family’s entrance into the Central Church of Christ, where Oscar would become not only a devoted member but also an elder and, ultimately, pastor for over two decades.
As pastor of Central Church of Christ, Oscar not only understood the responsibilities of the position but embodied them with love and compassion. This was evident in his initiation and dedication to the Breakfast Program—an open-door service that generously provided hot meals to countless low-income families in the community and bag lunches to the local homeless every Saturday for over 20 years. Additionally, his commitment extended to personally delivering communion (and sometimes meal plates) to all sick and shut-in church members every Sunday afternoon without fail for decades.
Oscar was not only a man of faith but a proud member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, and a lifelong student - dedicated to reading and learning daily. Educationally accomplished, Oscar earned a Bachelor's degree from Pacific Lutheran University and a Master's degree from the University of Puget Sound. His passion for education leading to a fulfilling 30-year career as an educator. Affectionately known as "Mr. Chambers" by many, Oscar taught every grade except kindergarten, and made an undeniable impact in the lives of his many students.
Even after retirement, Oscar's dedication to education persisted. He actively engaged in the care of his grandchildren, regularly providing before and after-school activities. Additionally, he volunteered at Franklin Elementary School, serving as a morning greeter and lunchroom attendant, because while this was a joy to him, he adamantly believed, “kids learn best when they’re happy.”
Oscar Franklin Chambers, Sr., was a loving and inspirational pillar of the community. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his service, his teaching, and his unwavering love. Today, as we bid farewell to a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, let us remember Oscar for the love that defined his life and the impact he made on the world around him.
He is preceded in death by his loving parents, Collie Chambers Sr. and Blanche Chambers, sisters Elouise Richardson, Doris Gwendolyn Brown, and brothers Collie Chambers, Jr., and James Hardy Chambers. He is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Angie Marie Chambers, his four children, Oscar Chambers, Jr., Sebrena Chambers, Andreta Armstrong (Keith), and Owen Chambers (Bettie), his six grandchildren, Tiye Chambers, Oscar Chambers III, Orrin Chambers, Ashleigh Sumlin (Danté), Yona Traylor (Joshua), Oasha Chambers, and ten great-grandchildren, Kyree, Xavion, Nathan, Omari, Nia, Zakhai, Monica, Jules, Jayce, and Joshua and his three sisters Barbara Warren, Dr. Beverly Davis, Sandra Bullard (James) and brother Elliott Chambers, Sr.
May we find solace in the memories we shared with Oscar and draw inspiration from the legacy of love and service he leaves behind.
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