Chancie James Edler Jr. was born on September 14, 1935, in Cantonment, Florida. He was the beloved son of the late Chancie J. Edler Sr. and Ms. Mattie Odom. Though he spoke little about his early years in Florida, he carried those roots with him when he later made Massachusetts his home.
Chancie built a long and dedicated career at Logan Airport in Boston, Massachusetts, working from the 1960s until his retirement in 2000. Over the years, he held full-time positions with Air la Carte, Marriott In-Flight, Caterair, and Sky Chefs. In addition, he worked part-time with Flying Tigers, and later FedEx following its acquisition of the company, often balancing multiple roles at once, demonstrating his strong work ethic and deep commitment to providing for his family.
Faith was an important part of his life. He began his spiritual journey at First Baptist Church in Florida and later attended State Temple Church of God in Christ, where he continued to grow in faith and fellowship. In 2008, while faithfully attending State Temple, he received his deacon’s license, a reflection of his commitment to serving the church and his community.
Outside of work, he found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, playing softball, and spending time at the card table. He was also a devoted fan of the Boston Red Sox and took great pride in cheering for his team.
A man devoted to family, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy: 11 children, 34 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom will continue to honor his memory.
Through his unions, he leaves to cherish his memory:
From his first union with Mary Weaden: Bonnie Edler, Carolyn Edler, Cynthia Edler, the late Chancie J. Edler III, and Calvin Joe of Florida.
From his second union with Corene Hutchinson Edler: Troy E. Edler (Annette), John D. Edler Sr. (Angela), and Kimberly Edler-Jean (Frantz) of Boston, Massachusetts along with bonus daughters Minnie Alston and the late Brenda Stewart.
From his beloved marriage to Joanne M. Edler, whom he married on April 18, 1972: Stacey Edler-Fournier (Richard).
He is also survived by his siblings: Paul E. Odom Sr. (Pearl), Marilyn Odom, Virginia Moore, Gloria Brown, Linda Rice, Sharon Salter, and Olivia McLaren; and was predeceased by Clarence Edler, Autherine Robinson, Ethel Robinson, Margaret Moore, Carolyn English, Louise Banks, and Anne Farrow. He also leaves behind a host of brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and his cherished church family. Chancie will be remembered for his quiet strength, his dedication to family, his faith, and the example he set through hard work and perseverance. His life was a testament to service, both to his family and to his faith.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.