Joseph Richard Chandler

Joseph Richard Chandler, 74, of Edinburgh, Indiana, peacefully surrounded by his family passed away from this life on Thursday, October 29, 2026. He was born November 28, 1951, in New Albany, Indiana and is the son of the late Lillian (Harry) Barnett and Otto (Mandy) Chandler. Joe married Debra (Burton) Chandler on February 19, 1971.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, two children, Richard (Ally) Chandler and April Chandler both of Edinburgh; seven grandchildren, Allen Chandler, David (Shara) Chandler, Megan (Sean) Roth, Gavin Straugh, Logan Poff, Nate East and Braydon McIntosh; 12 great grandchildren, plus several bonus loves that affectionately called him Papaw Joe; three brothers, Paul (Gladys) Stiltner, Tony (Beverly) Barnett, Dale (Dorthy) Barnett along with many nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Carl Chandler; sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Tungett and a great grandson, Owen Chandler.

Joe was employed with Arvins in Franklin, Indiana for 34 years. Then he worked several years part time in maintenance at the Johnson County Courthouse before officially retiring. Even though Joe never actually graduated he made the brave decision to return to school through the Edinburgh Adult Education program where he learned to read, an accomplishment he along with his family was so proud of. He often encouraged others to not give up on their dreams of learning. Joe loved to draw and share his drawings with everyone he ran into. Often drawing his signature rose to gift people as a way to put a smile on their face. Joe always loved working on cars and “hot-rodding” in every car he owned, a fact known to all who knew him. Joe was such a kind hearted man who loved people. He had a sense of humor like no other. Joe never met a stranger and loved to joke around and cut up with everyone. He also never met a dog that didn’t instantly love him, including his special pals Daisy Mae and Gracie. Joe will be missed by all who had the privilege to love him and be loved by him.

A funeral service will be conducted at 1:00 PM by Pastors Randy Denton and Jim Hudson on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Who So Ever Will Community Church in Edinburgh, Indiana. Visitation will be on Monday, November 2, 2026, from 4:00-8:00 PM at the church and from noon until time of service on Tuesday. Burial will be at Rest Haven Cemetery in Edinburgh, Indiana.

Arrangements made by Eskew-Eaton Funeral Home in Edinburgh, Indiana.