Chester Hamby, 73, of Truth or Consequences, passed away peacefully in his home on July 6, 2020 after a long illness.
Chester is survived by wife of 52 years, Elizabeth Hamby; daughter, Amanda Opstad and her husband, Jasiah Opstad; granddaughter, Danielle Brouwers and her husband Justin of Tucson, AZ; and brother, Ron Hamby of Phoenix, AZ. He was loved by all.
Chester was born March 10, 1947 in Van Nuys, CA. He served in the Navy on the nuclear submarine Daniel Webster from 1964-1968. Followed by a retirement career as a union mechanical insulator and chef. He loved feeding people and dogs all around. He loved making things in his shop and ranching in Dragoon, AZ. He would give the shirt off his back for anyone.
A special thanks to his friends at Johnny B's, Ambercare -Brittany, Susan and Lisa, the folks at Bullocks and Bank of the Southwest and his friends not limited to Dan and Baxter!
Cremation has taken place and no services will be held at this time.
I just came upon this. My name is Michael Stowers, son of Mike Stowers. My dad worked with Chester for many years in the Union. I remember spending time with Chet growing up. I looked up to him. My dad would always tell me how hard would work and the quality of work he would do. I thought of Chester as this almost mythical person because of how hard he worked and how strong he was. The Stowers family send our love. ~Michael Stowers; Bishop, CA
Just wanted you to know I am thinking of you at this time, Libby. Don't know if you knew that Tom passed away last year, so I can certainly feel what you are going through.
Chet was one of our first friends when we moved to Arizona and one of our most loyal. He made it easy to adjust to a big change. We will always cherish our adventures and visits to T or C. Great food and he always made Lady and Corky feel like family. We love you Chet . See you later.. Bernie and Roxanne
Chester was a great friend and a loving person to all. He never missed a single one of my yard sales. Donald Reser
Great man. He will be missed. Glad I got to meet him and have the few memories. the world lost another good cowboy.
Chester was a kind, caring and loving Husband,Father and Friend. He will be missed. He was a cowboy style craftsman keeping himself busy making bags, purses, knifes and furniture mostly for his wife Libby. We meet his Mom and Dad back in 1996. (Shorty and Nora) they would talk about their Son Chester& Libby coming to live at TorC. Chester&Libby did arrive about 10 years later. His Mom&Day was wheeler and dealers. Chester helped his parents make something special out of their finds. Good Man! We our sorry for your lost, prayer for your family and to his loving wife Libby. Joe&Sue
He was a great man and I always had the utmost respect for him. Keith Guilliams
I did not know Mr. Hamby, but I have seen his wonderful spirit in his daughter, Amanda. Rest In Peace Sir. Condolences sent to Mrs. Hamby and your entire family. Lee Fairbanks, Tucson
Chester will always be considered one of my best friends and a second father. He is the reason my wife is who she is. I will always miss him. Jasiah Opstad
Your entire family is in my thoughts and prayers! I wish I could have gotten to know him but his character and memory will continue to light up my life through Manda - Jan
I remember a big ol cowboy with a big ol heart & laugh. He had a great smile also. Love & miss you uncle cher. My prayers are with you aunt libby & manda. Love ya'll.
Such strength, intelligence, and Independantly fierce in his love for family. His talent with his craftsmanship at work & in his shop will always be and is an incredible thing. Our home displays the southwest beauty of his gifts. Thank you Chet for your gifts, and the memories always in our hearts. Darlene Peters -sisters-in-law
Dad, I loved you from day one. You taught me so many things. I will carry you and your stories in my heart always. I will speak your name so you are never forgotten. I love you so much!!!
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.