"For every time you think of me, I'm right here in your heart."

With hearts full of gratitude for 92 years of a life well lived and faith well kept, we celebrate the life and legacy of Fred Chavis, Jr., a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful servant of God, and friend to all who knew him.

Fred Chavis, Jr. was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to the late Rev. Fred Chavis, Sr. (Galilee Missionary Baptist Church) and Lenora Johnson Chavis. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved brother, Rev. James Chavis; and his sisters, Daisy C. Roland and Evelyn Sutton.

At an early age, Fred accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, was baptized, and joined the church. His unwavering faith remained the foundation of his life and guided every decision he made. He believed that serving God meant serving others, and he faithfully lived out that calling each day.

Fred graduated from Atkins High School and continued his education at Wake Forest School of Business. He also completed coursework with the Delta Nu Alpha Transportation Fraternity, Inc., specializing in Motor and Rail Freight Rates.

He enjoyed a distinguished career with AT&T (Western Electric), where he dedicated 35 years of faithful service before retiring. Retirement, however, was simply the beginning of another chapter of service. He became a certified long-distance motor coach driver and continued working as a tour bus operator and an activity bus driver for the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System, where he safely transported countless students and travelers with the same care and kindness that characterized every aspect of his life.

A man of deep conviction, Fred answered God's call to leadership within the church. On August 9, 1971, Fred was ordained as a Deacon under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Dr. W. L. Wilson at First Calvary Baptist Church. Throughout his years of Christian fellowship, Fred faithfully served in numerous capacities, including: Church Treasurer, Trustee Board Member, Chairman of the Deacon Ministry, Sunday School Teacher, Men's Fellowship, Finance Committee, Samaritan Soup Kitchen Ministry, Fourth Monday Night Bible Study, Word on Wednesday (WOW) Ministry, Senior Adult Ministry, and Galilee Missionary Baptist Church Senior Statesman.

Whether teaching God's Word, serving meals to those in need, mentoring young people, or offering encouragement to a stranger, Fred exemplified Christ's love through humble service. He never sought recognition; his greatest reward was knowing he had made someone's day a little brighter.

Family was the center of Fred's life. He shared a loving and devoted marriage with his beloved wife, Edna S. Chavis, whose partnership and faith enriched their home for over 72 years.

Together they built a legacy of love that continues through their children, Fred Ricardo Chavis (Dr. Kim Chavis) of Plainfield, Illinois, Pamela C. Fleming of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Anthony Darnell Chavis (Jeanene) of Raleigh, North Carolina.

His greatest earthly joy was being "Papa" to his cherished grandchildren, Steven B. Fleming, Jr., Erika C. Fleming, Jadin A. Chavis, and Alexia L. Chavis

He treasured every moment spent with them, teaching them to swim, water ski, appreciate nature, and, most importantly, trust in the Lord. His wisdom, patience, and gentle spirit will forever remain a guiding light in their lives.

Fred also leaves to cherish his memory, numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his generosity and unwavering kindness.

A man of many interests, Fred found joy in reading, swimming, boating, water skiing, hunting, gardening, sports, traveling, and he was an avid fan of NASCAR Racing. No matter where he was, he never met a stranger. His warm smile, compassionate heart, and willingness to help others made everyone feel welcomed and valued.

Those who knew Fred understood that his greatest passion was not found in his hobbies or accomplishments but in his steadfast relationship with Jesus Christ. He lived with integrity, loved unconditionally, forgave freely, and remained faithful to God until the very end.

Today, while our hearts grieve his physical absence, we rejoice in the promise of eternal life. As expressed in the beloved poem "When Tomorrow Starts Without Me," we find comfort in knowing that Fred has entered his heavenly home where there is no more pain, sorrow, or separation. Though tomorrow may begin without him here on earth, his love, faith, and example continue to live on in every life he touched.

His legacy reminds us that a life devoted to Christ leaves footprints that time cannot erase. Though we mourn today, we celebrate with confidence knowing that Fred has heard those glorious words, well done, good and faithful servant, and now rests safely in the presence of his Savior.

Goodbye for now, I’ll see you again someday.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30am Thursday, July 16, 2026 at Galilee Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Gardens of Memory, Walkertown, NC. The family visitation will be held from 11:00am until 11:30am on Thursday at the Church.