Andrew "Drew" Middleton Chandler

Andrew “Drew” Middleton Chandler

Andrew “Drew” Middleton Chandler, 86, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, formerly of Kosciusko, Mississippi, passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Jordan Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. at Jordan Funeral Home Chapel, with graveside service to follow at Parkway Cemetery. Rev. Barry Corbett will officiate the services.

Drew was born on July 18, 1940, in Mississippi, to John Andrew Chandler and Melne Middleton Chandler. Throughout his long and meaningful career in education, Drew dedicated himself to serving others as a teacher, track coach, principal, counselor, and football coach. His influence extended far beyond the classroom and athletics, touching the lives of countless students, athletes, families, and friends.A faithful member of First Baptist Church Kosciusko, Drew’s faith was an important part of his life. He was also an avid supporter of college football and enjoyed sharing his enthusiasm for the game with those around him.

Above all, Drew was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and cherished family man. His greatest joy was his family, and the love he shared with them will remain a lasting part of their lives. He will be remembered for the many lives he influenced, the wisdom he shared, and the love and devotion he gave so freely to his family.

Drew is survived by his beloved wife, Gayle R. Chandler; son, John M. (Laurabeth) Chandler of Sumrall, Mississippi; daughter, Kim C. (Stephen) Wilson of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; grandchildren, Andee (Stephen) Thomas of Mobile, Alabama, Lauren Chandler of Washington, D.C., Ryan Chandler of Oxford, Mississippi, Sadee Chandler, Austin Chandler, and Wyatt Chandler of Sumrall, Mississippi; great-grandchild, Chandler Thomas of Mobile, Alabama; and daughter-in-law, Lorie Chandler of Oxford, Mississippi.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Andrew Chandler and Melne Middleton Chandler; his son, Mart Chandler; and his brother, John T. Chandler.

Serving as pallbearers are Robert Allen Knight, Tony Vanderford, Rob Pickle, Sammy Bryant, Ryan Chandler, and Jimmy Stewart. 

Honorary pallbearers are Dan Wright, Jimmy Jenkins, Joe Wood, Billy Alderman, Harry Eskew, Shane Atkison, and Dan West.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the First Baptist Church Kosciusko Mission Fund.

The family extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Forrest General ICU and Palliative Care Team for the compassionate care provided to Drew and his family.

Drew leaves behind a legacy of faith, dedication, family, and service. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.