On September 28, 1954, a strong baby boy named Andrew Jackson Chester Jr. - known to everyone simply as Andy - was born to Alma Gwendolyn "Gwen" Smith Chester and Andrew Jackson "Jack" Chester at St. Joseph's Hospital in Houston, Texas.

Andy was strong‑minded, some might even say stubborn, and always full of energy. He grew up in a small house on Palmcrest Street in Houston, Texas, alongside his four sisters. As the only boy in the family, he quickly learned the value of independence and taking care of himself. He spent countless hours helping his father at work and playing sports and finding trouble with friends in the neighborhood. He attended Genoa Elementary, Beverly Hills Intermediate, and Dobie High School. It was at Dobie where his love for competition developed. He became known as a standout athlete in both football and track. After high school, Andy became known for his unmistakable look: an afro paired with thick glasses that made him instantly recognizable.

Andy worked many jobs throughout his life. He spent several years in the construction field, later rented out tools and equipment at FW Gartner, and eventually built a career for himself as a professional handyman, specializing in hanging sheetrock. Andy never struggled to find work - everyone knew he was a dedicated, reliable worker who took great pride in delivering the best results for his customers. Andy often credited his success in life to his mother, Gwen. She faced many hardships, yet always made sure her children had what they needed. Throughout the years, the two cared for one another in their times of need, sharing a bond built on resilience, support, and love.

Andy lived for three things: fishing, four‑wheeling, and his son, Andrew. The outdoors was his true home. A master fisherman, he was widely respected for his offshore skills and even earned top honors in the Coastal Conservation Association's STAR tournament in 2002. Some of his happiest nights were spent gigging flounder under the moonlight in Galveston Bay. His friends often joked that he was fearless - heading out in conditions most people wouldn't dream of - because that's where he felt most alive. Fishing was one of his greatest passions, and he took joy in sharing his knowledge with the family and friends who loved learning from him. Another one of Andy's passions was four‑wheeling. He loved working on his four-wheeler and spending time at Xtreme Off Road Auto Park in Crosby, Texas, where he formed many lasting friendships. Some of his favorite days were spent riding through the mud with friends, getting dirty, and enjoying the thrill of the trail. Andy poured his heart into everything he did, and he passed that same determination on to his son, Andrew. He taught him to always give his all - lessons Andrew carries with him every day.  His son, Andrew has always been a calm, quiet presence, which was exactly what Andy needed in his life. Andy would often ask him how he managed to stay so steady, and Andrew would smile and say, "Well, one of us has to be." Some of Andrew's favorite memories with his dad were their weekend trips to Toys "R" Us, where Andy would buy him as many Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars as he could carry. They also shared a love of "fine dining," enjoying meals together at places like Schlotzsky's and Taco Bell.

Later in life, Andy was diagnosed with bladder cancer. In the face of that challenge, his family came together around him with unwavering support. They stood by him through every step of his journey. Andrew recalls the day his dad was finally released from the hospital. It was his responsibility to help Andy attach his new urostomy pouch. The two of them struggled, made a mess, and laughed through the frustration - but they figured it out together. It's a moment that serves as a reminder of their bond and the strength they shared. In 2006, Andy prayed to receive Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and was baptized shortly afterwards at Sagemont Church.

Andy was preceded in death by his parents, Alma Gwendolyn Smith Chester and Andrew Jackson Chester. He is survived by his son, Andrew Joseph Chester; his sisters, Ruth Mann (Richard), Crystal Hawley, Cheryl Siems, and Suzanne Chester; and by many nieces and nephews whom he loved deeply.

Andy was a strong man with a generous heart, and his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the many fishermen he guided along the way.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Sagemont Church Beltway Chapel. A light lunch will be provided after the service. Please wear a fishing shirt or casual dress. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Andy's name to the Coastal Conservation Association. This association works to protect, promote, and enhance coastal resources. Visit CCATexas.org/Donate for more information.