James Roy (JR) (Chief) Chidester

James Roy (JR) (Chief) Chidester, age 77 passed away Saturday, May 30, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was a native of Baton Rouge and resident of Prairieville, LA. Born January 19,1949. James Roy Chidester married Bonnie Lynn Weaver in Woodville, Miss on Jan 31, 1968. He was a devoted loving husband and father. Devoting a lot of his time to Fire and Rescue throughout his life.

Proceeded in death by His wife Bonnie Lynn Weaver; his parents Helen (Foster, Chidester) Tate, Joshua Chidester; and sister Lena (Bendily); brothers Dolphus Chidester and John Chidester. 

He leaves behind his children Laurie C Jacobson, Angela C. Morales, and James Roy Chidester Jr.; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

He was raised in Baton Rouge, worked at Ethyl and LSU Fire Training, moved to Billings, MT, worked at Exxon Mobile as the Fire Chief, then settled back in Prairieville, LA and retired from Orion Refinery. He was an avid Domino player and enjoyed hunting, fishing, running crawfish traps on the bayou, and spending time with his family.

James was a kindhearted man and he will be loved and missed by everyone who knew him. 

Visitation will be held at Ourso Funeral Home, 13533 Airline Highway, Gonzales, LA 70737, on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 9:00 am until a Memorial Service at 11:00 am.