Melton Leerell (Lee) Chastain

Peacefully, with family by his side, Melton Leerell (Lee) Chastain, 86, of Gainesville, GA went home to be with Jesus on December 20, 2024 after a brief illness.  He was a devoted husband to his wife of 68 years Mary Patricia (Pat) Chastain and a loving supportive father to Sonya C. Atkins and Lesia Chastain. He was a proud “PaPa” to his grandchildren, Shon Atkins (Leslie) and Rebekah A. Morgan (Adam), two great-grandchildren Kaylin and Connor Atkins.  In addition to his family, he leaves behind nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents Selma and David (Dave) Chastain, as well as his six older siblings.  He was the last in his generation.  They are having a big reunion in heaven now.

Born and raised in Toccoa, GA, Lee developed a strong work ethic.  He believed in working hard and “if you are going to do it, do it right the first time.”  He spent most of his career in sales and management, where he was known for his award winning sales capability.  In his latter career, he was a small business owner, owning and operating American Vacuum Supply in Stone Mountain and Gainesville, GA.  He offered services for vacuum cleaners and sewing machines, both new and used.  He enjoyed many years as a small business owner until he retired from American Vacuum Supply.

Lee was a man of integrity, kindness, and generosity.  He would do all he could to help his daughters and grandchildren.  He encouraged his daughters to live a full life and “know your ground and stand it”.  He treasured time with his grandchildren.  He coached his grandson’s baseball team, mentored his grandchildren, and was a rock for them as they navigated life.

Through the years, he had many beloved pets. Once he saved an injured bird then released it once it was strong enough to fly again.  He truly loved all of his pet dogs and cats through the years.

Lee enjoyed being outside.  He and Pat enjoyed camping at Vogel State Park. A beautiful day would find him doing something outside. He loved his tractor. He would find additional projects to do outside, i.e.; planting trees, cutting grass, trimming bushes, sitting on the back porch in a swing with his dog by his side.  Lee had an incredible eye for details which he translated into his gift of organization.  He had a place for everything and everything in its place. Lee was loved and respected by anyone who knew him.

You lived a truly miraculous life. This isn’t goodbye, this is we will miss you dearly and think of you often until we see you again on the other side.

A celebration of life will be held on December 30, 2024 at 5 PM at Memorial Park Funeral Home, Gainesville, GA.  Visitation just prior to the service from 4-5PM. 

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Rd., Gainesville, Ga. 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com