Grayford Chesher

Grayford H. Chesher         (12-20-31 to 5-11-10)  An extraordinary man, loved by all he met, Grayford Chesher exemplified selfless generosity, adventure and joy in all he did. His character of kindness and acceptance for all who crossed his path has left an indelible imprint and a legacy from which we all can learn. Grayford served in the U.S. Navy in the Korean War. He returned home and finished college on the GI Bill to become a schoolteacher at "Old" Central, Moon, and John Marshall High School, spanning 33 years of service. All the while, he worked an additional job as a commercial bus driver with Greyhound, Oklahoma Trailways, MKO, and most recently Jefferson Bus Lines, where he was loving nicknamed "Chaser" (a job he loved and which brought him AND his passengers great adventure). His life of service did not end there as he always gave to those who were homeless or in need (literally giving the coat off his back to someone that was cold). Through all of this, he drew his strength from his absolute and unwavering faith in God. He married the love of his life, Joan and spent 55 years committed to meeting life"™s journey together. His devoted daughters, Cynthia Collins-Clark and Robin Bonnema, never ceased to be amazed at his endless capacity for humble, steadfast love and support. His grandchildren, Rachel and Brad Bonnema and Christine and Joe Collins were the recipients of his playful spirit and undeniable love. He welcomed with open arms and loved with a generous heart his step-grandchildren, James, Jimmy, Betsy and Nikki, as well as granddaughter-in-law Lauren and great grand-daughter Piper. His sons-in-law Jim Clark and the late Bill Bonnema shared many common interests including architectural beauty, the majesty of the universe and travel but mostly, the love of his daughters. Grayford was one of 8 Chesher children born in the Depression Era. He is survived by Thomas Aubrey and Barbara Sue (and numerous nieces and nephews) and pre-deceased by Nancy Jane, Patricia, Ina Mae (Tiny), Betty Jo, and David. They maintained a sense of family that is unprecedented through their constant communication and support of one another. He was fondly regarded by Joan"™s family, Jackie Smith, Shirley Slayton, Linda Muff and Steve Vanderburg who cherished him for all he was. Throughout his valiant fight with pancreatitis, all were amazed at the kindness he showed to hospital staff, family and friends in the midst of great pain. The family will be forever indebted to the team of physicians Dr.s Brian Williams, Hemric, Rankin and Nagle, who worked diligently to save his life. Additionally, to the compassionate nurses John, Amy and Scherrie on the 5th floor ICU, who created an environment of dignity in his final hours. Grayford will always be known for treating everyone he met with dignity, regardless of his or her position in life. He was active in the Mason"™s, Lion"™s Club, and Board Member of Veterans"™ Families United Foundation. His life was an example of Faith, family and fun (sometimes mischievous) and all who have been touched by him can honor that legacy by carrying it forward in their own lives. The list of lives that he touched (some we know and others we may never know of) made his life rich and he cherished all. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Grayford Chesher please visit our Sympathy Store.