John Edward Gilchriest

John Edward “Buzzie” Gilchriest, age 85, of Beaumont, TX, passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024. He was born on August 20, 1939, in Beaumont, TX, to Earl and Dee Lou Moore Gilchriest.

He was a living legend whose distinctive and uncommon life left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Born as a true miracle to a mother who faced great difficulties with her pregnancies, Buzzie's existence was a testament to resilience from the very beginning. Buzzie's life was one of extraordinary passion and intensity. Known for his hellraising antics in his youth, stories of his exploits were incredible and bordered on the unbelievable. His magnetic aura drew people to him, a trait that served him well in his successful career in sales. Buzzie was not only a fighter and tough as nails, but also a man full of love, tenderness, and care. His happiness was simple, yet when he set his sights on something, he pursued it with unmatched vigor. Throughout his life's journey, Buzzie forged numerous friendships and touched countless hearts. Ultimately, he found his true love and soulmate in his "Darlin'," Lela. For her, he turned his life around, channeling his passion into their relationship and reigniting his faith in Christ. God's presence became his guiding light, a faith deeply rooted in the teachings of his mother and grandmother, beginning each day with study and prayer. Buzzie cherished order, generosity, and the bonds of deep, lasting relationships. He was a devoted father and grandfather, whose pride in his family was evident in every aspect of his life. Buzzie Gilchriest leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering faith. He will be greatly missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Left to honor his memory is his loving wife, Lela Cascio Gilchriest; sons, John Cody Gilchriest and wife, Venus, of Humble, TX, William Edward Gilchriest and wife, Holly, of Midland, TX, and Jason Dennis and wife, Megan, of Clear Lake, Iowa; daughters, Misti Michelle Gilchriest Doucet of Silsbee, TX and Debi Perricone and husband, Carl; son-in-law, Anthony Volentine; 15 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family, friends, and loved ones.

Preceding Buzzie in death are his parents; daughter, Diane Volentine; brothers, Marvin “Butter” Gilchriest and Carroll Gilchriest; and sisters, Patsy Sue Gilchriest and Evonne Gilchriest.

Visitation for family and friends will be on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m., at Family Worship Center of Lumberton, 341 North Village Creek Parkway, Lumberton, TX 77657. Buzzie’s life honoring memorial service will be at 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 18, 2024, also at church.

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