Era Davis Chastain

Era Davis Chastain, age 99, passed away June 24, 2024. 

Born September 9, 1924, in Tylertown, Mississippi, to Percy Edgar Davis and Chinese Thomas Davis, Era grew up in Sandy Hook, Mississippi. As a young girl she was baptized in the cold water of Hurricane Creek. She was a star high school basketball player in a group called the Swamp Ladies. After graduation from Columbia High School, in Mississippi, Era served her country during World War II as a parachute inspector for Reliance Manufacturing. It was during 1942 that she met her future husband, Granville Otto Chastain. They married in 1946, and began a lifelong partnership filled with love and devotion. Era was deeply committed to her family, church, and community. She became a licensed cosmetologist in 1947. For over thirty years, she taught Sunday School at First Baptist Church in Gulfport, Mississippi, touching the lives of countless individuals. Her nurturing presence as a mother, comforter, encourager, teacher, friend, and mentor left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her talents extended beyond the church walls, as she enjoyed painting, crafts, and creating works of stained glass. Friends and neighbors were routinely blessed with her renowned spaghetti sauce. 

Era is preceded in death by her parents, Percy Edgar Davis and Chinese Thomas Davis, her beloved husband Granville O. Chastain, two brothers, George Jenkins and Edgar Davis, and three sisters, Melanie Fortenberry, Vondee Beeman, and Rea Stringer. She is survived by her two sons: David Chastain (the late Carol) of Johnson City, TN, and Daryl Chastain of Gulfport, MS; grandchildren Emily Chastain of Washington, D.C., and Jeff Chastain (Evan) of Orlando, FL; along with two cherished great-granddaughters.

 As we honor Era’s memory, we reflect on a life well-live, defined by her unwavering commitment to her loved ones and her community. Her legacy of devotion, kindness, and creativity will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 2, at 10:30 AM, with a visitation starting at 9:00 AM at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport. MS 39503. 

A Celebration of Life Reception will follow from 11:00 – 12:00 pm at the funeral homes reception room.

Burial will be private at Biloxi National Cemetery. 

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport is proudly serving the family.