Chester Byron Brittain, born on June 12, 1925, passed away on November 15, 2024, in Portland, Texas. He was a resident of the Pavilion Assisted Living. Known as a gentle giant, Chester was celebrated for his kindhearted nature and unwavering integrity. His witty humor was a source of joy and laughter for all who knew him.

Chester graduated from Taft High School in 1943 and soon after bravely served in the Marine Corps from 1943 to 1946, during which time he was assigned to the 6th Marine Division which invaded Okinawa on April 1, 1945.  He was part of the crew that maintained Yontan Airfield where he received shrapnel wounds during a night air raid by Japanese bombers.  Chester was honored with a Purple Heart for his valor. Post-military, he embarked on a distinguished career as a farmer and rancher of 1500 acres located between Sinton and Taft, Texas, a vocation he dedicated himself to until 2014. Chester also made his mark in the rodeo world, competing as a member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. He traveled the nation, excelling in calf roping and steer wrestling. Notably, in 1956, he was one of two cowboys selected to represent the United States at the Moomba Festival Rodeo in Melbourne, Australia, where he set a new record in steer wrestling, a testament to his skill and determination. Additionally, Chester served as an AQHA Quarter Horse judge across the nation for 20 years and was deeply involved in breeding, training, and showing registered quarter horses in various competitive events including Cutting Horse, Reining, and Halter.

Chester's legacy is carried on by his loving family, including his children: Wayne Brittain, Linda Petrus (Bubba), Cheryl Vandever, Robin Brittain, and Gayle Brittain; grandchildren: Corey Brittain (Kristen), Jason Brittain (Lauren), Major Joseph (Jaime), Chari Vandever Shook, and Taze Vandever; as well as his great-grandchildren: Jaxon, Brooklyn, Jake, and John David Brittain, Paige and Maggie Joseph, and Karma Vandever; nieces: Bonnie Tomek, Beverly Tomek Otterson; nephew:  Phil Tomek (Deb).

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife: Eddie Mae Brittain; daughter: Connie Rose; parents: Jesse and Effie Brittain; sister:  Kathryn (Kay) Tomek.

A visitation is scheduled for November 20, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Resthaven Funeral Home Chapel, Sinton. The Funeral Service will be November 21, 2024, 10:00 AM at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Lamas Memorial Park Cemetery, Taft, Texas.  

Pallbearers will be Corey Brittain, Jason Brittain, Major Joseph, Taze Vandever, Marvin Beyer and Danny Beyer. Honorary Pallbearers will be Wayne Brittain, Jake Brittain, John David Brittain and Jaxon Brittain.

Chester's life was a remarkable journey of service, family, and accomplishments. He leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and honor that will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Pavilion Assisted Living and Harbor Hospice for their kind and loving care.

Guestbook available online at www.resthavenfunerals.com

Arrangements and care entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home, Sinton.