Russell "Rusty" Crocket Chester

Russell Crocket (Rusty) Chester, age 76, of Lakeland, GA passed away Monday afternoon January 12, 2026, at South Georgia Medical Center in Valdosta following declining health for many years. He was born November 25, 1949, to the late Royce Benton and Mary Russell (Twitty) Chester in Pelham, GA. Rusty graduated from Lanier County High School in 1968.

He enjoyed playing his favorite sport baseball, a vital player on his team. From his truck he watched many Lanier County High baseball games. He and Louis were avid Georgia Bulldog fans watching them on TV or listening to the radio in his truck. He and Louis owned and operated the feed and seed store, a gathering place where many tall tales were told. His personality and laugh were attractive, making him a friend to many. He and his brother, the late Louis Chester, read and knew more history than most, creating a love for old items collecting them as a hobby. Before his health prohibited, he was an avid outdoorsman fishing and hunting. Arthritis forced his immobility and, he could no longer attend Southside Baptist Church where he made a profession of faith in Jesus.

Rusty is survived by cousins, and many close friends.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 16, 2026, in the Lakeland Chapel of Music Funeral Services. It was his request that friends share favorite stories and memories, please come prepared to tell your memory. The visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Kind words and expressions of sympathy can be left at www.musicfuneralservices.com. Rusty’s family is being served by the professional and caring staff of Music Funeral Services of Lakeland, GA.