In Memory
Richard E. Chambliss
Richard E. Chambliss, a loving husband, father, and dedicated community member, passed away on June 14, 2023, in South Bend, the city where he was born on January 12, 1938. He was the son of the late Henry and Emma (Redding) Chambliss and was a lifelong resident of the area.
Richard attended Central High School and later went on to work for the South Bend Community School Corporation as a custodian. He retired in 1997 after 25 years of devoted service, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of countless students and staff members.
On July 22, 1966, Richard married the love of his life, Hattie (Showers) Chambliss, in South Bend. Together, they raised two wonderful children: daughter, Laura Chambliss Stamps (Jabari) of Ferndale, WA, and son, Nicky Eugene Chambliss of South Bend. Richard was a kind and generous father, always putting the needs of his family first and providing unwavering support.
Richard was preceded in death by his sister, Emma L. Chambliss, and brothers, Robert, George, Julius, Charlie, Larry, and Leroy Chambliss. He is survived by his loving wife, Hattie, their children, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will cherish his memory.
Throughout his life, Richard was committed to giving back to his community. He was an avid volunteer for the soup kitchen at St. Augustine Catholic Church and delivered food for St. Vincent dePaul. His kindness and generosity touched the lives of countless individuals in need.
In addition to his community service, Richard had a passion for helping his wife with her gardening and selling her flowers and baked goods at flea markets and other venues. He also supported her love of gardening by joining a local gardening club. The couple's love for each other was evident in everything they did, and Richard could often be found joining clubs and activities simply because Hattie was involved. This included at times the local autobahn society and a senior line dancing group. His love for her was an inspiration to many who knew them. One of his greatest passions was being a very involved member of the Martin Luther King Jr. Senior Men’s Club. He made many friends there and loved to also encourage his daughter to attend Friday meetings whenever she was in town. Richard was also an enthusiastic member of the Redding Family Reunion Committee, where he played an active role in organizing and fund raising for events that brought his extended family together. His dedication to preserving traditions and connections will be greatly missed his family, friends, and all that were blessed by his presence.
Richard will be remembered as a kind, generous (and funny!) man who devoted his life to his family, friends, and community. His legacy of love, service, and commitment to others will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Mass of Christian burial will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 1501 W. Washington St, South Bend. Graveside service and burial will follow at Highland Cemetery, South Bend. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 19, 2023, at Palmer Funeral Home-West Chapel, 2702 Lincolnway West, South Bend. Additional visitation will be held from 11:00-12:00p.m. on Tuesday at the church prior to the Mass.
Memorial contributions in his honor may be made to St. Augustine Catholic Church, 1501 W. Washington St., South Bend, IN 46628.
Online condolences may be made for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
Posted online on June 16, 2023
Published in South Bend Tribune
06/17/2023 EJS
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