Chester Barrett Lay, 76, of East Enterprise/Bennington, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home on March 18th at 9:20 a.m.
He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Chester leaves behind his beloved wife, Mary Ann Barrows Lay, whom he married on November 26th, 1966 and celebrated over 59 years of marriage with, and their children: Stacy Lay, Tammy Lay Auxier (Tim Auxier), and Jamie Lay (Colleen Lay).
He was a proud grandfather to Brandon Auxier (Chelsey Auxier), Corey Lay (Alyssa Lay), Hailee Lay (Alex), Briana Auxier, Jordan Lay, Lexi Lay, Ty Lay, and Kolvin Lay, and a cherished great-grandfather to Maddie Auxier, Ryan Lay, Avery Auxier, Harper Auxier, Beckett Lay, and Elodia Stanton.
Chester was the loving son of Bessie (Buck) Lay and Thorton Bant Lay.
Chester is survived by his sisters; Linda, Connie, and Carolyn. He was preceded in death by his siblings: Datha, Raymond, Stanley, Bill, Jessie, Carl, and Lily Mae.
Chester dedicated 45 years of hard work to Anchor Glass. He built a life through his commitment and strong work ethic. When he wasn’t working at the factory, he was a farmer at heart. Chester raised tobacco, cattle, and hay, a way of life he took great pride in. Chester was also a faithful member of the Fairview Baptist Church.
He honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, a service he carried with quiet pride. He is also survived by his lifelong friend, Gary Remmen, who he selflessly served our country with.
He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his resilience, and the love he gave so freely to those around him. He was a hardworking man who loved his family, his farm, and the simple things in life. He taught the value of dedication, kindness, and never giving up. Even in his final days, his spirit and witty humor never left him. His legacy lives on through the generations of family who were blessed to know and love him.
Chester will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
Funeral services will be 2:00 PM, Sunday, March 22nd, 2026 at Markland Funeral Home in Rising Sun, IN with Pastor John Hale officiating. Visitation will be 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Sunday, March 22nd at Markland Funeral Home. Burial will be at New Liberty Cemetery in East Enterprise, IN. Memorial donations may be made to the Fairview Baptist Church.