Mr. Lucious "Lou" Chastine

Mr. Lucious “Lou” Chastine, age 63, entered into eternal life with the Lord on Monday, August 8, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Dooling, Georgia on July 11, 1953, Lucious was the son of the late Johnny and Luella (Jones) Chastine. His family relocated to Utica where he was educated, attending local schools including Utica Free Academy. After high school, he enlisted into the United States Army where he proudly and honorably served his country from 1974-1976 during the Vietnam War. On October 3, 2003 he married the former Sharon Rucker-Eddings with whom he had shared a lifelong friendship. Their union was blessed with understanding, love, and devotion till the end. Lou worked for the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) for 20 years maintaining bridges and roads, a career from which he retired in 1994. Lou loved helping others. He mentored and coached the younger generation by utilizing his experience from the military. He was a respected and loyal man, he made the most of every day, an avid gardener, he cultivated fruits and vegetables, and over many years, he nurtured and grew many cacti and one actually grew to 8 feet tall! Lucious was a real grill master who enjoyed barbequeing for his family and friends. Lou found peace when fishing. He was fond of weekly dinners and a few slot games with his loving wife. Lou truly cherished all the quality time they shared. He was a 35-year member of the American Legion/ Harold Provost Post #1686 and Past Commander. He also coached softball for many seasons for the Soul Brothers team. He was a member of St. Matthew Temple Church of God in Christ and he knew the peace and love of his Savior, Jesus Christ. Looking back on his life, Lou was on a mission to be the best mate, family man, mentor, military member, motivator, man of God, where he succeeded. Lucious is survived by his wife, Sharon Chastine; his children and their spouses, Moronda and Eddie Facyson of El Paso, TX, Vornette Chastine of Utica, Lucius and Sherrisse Chastine of Atlanta, GA, Ayanna Chastine of Rochester, and Brandie Chastine of Utica; his 20 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and his sisters and brother-in-law, Marie and Ulysses Blackshear Smith, Johnnie Mae Chastine, Betty Chastine, and Phyllistine Chastine-Frost. His extended family includes his aunt, Pearlie Felton; a host of nieces, especially Venette Morrison who was like a sister; nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, many in-laws including Dawn Winston, Susan Bynum, Benita Rucker, and Darrel Freeman; his goddaughters, Star Enoch, and Lannie Johnson; his very special friend, Diane Tanner; and additional beloved friends, Paul Stanley, Ronnie Cave, Nate Price, Jessie Patterson, Todd Johnson, and Clarence Davis. He was predeceased by his children, Damon, and Tysha Eddings; his brother, Alfonso Adams; his sister, Joanne Chastine; and his lifelong friend, William Davis. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses of the Special Care Unit and 3rd Floor at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center; and Dr. Charles Eldridge for the comfort and care rendered to Lucious during all his stays. Services for Lucious will be held at St. Matthew’s Temple Church of God in Christ on Saturday with visitation from 11:00-1:00 p.m. Lucious’ funeral service and Home Going Celebration will commence at 1:00 immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. J.L. Griffin presiding with Military Honors conferred.

Mr. Lucious "Lou" Chastine

July 11, 1953 - August 8, 2016