Chester Ray McKemie

Chester Ray McKemie

Chester Ray McKemie, 75, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona.

Chester was born on May 25, 1951, in Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, to Charley McKemie and Velma “Betty” Kimbrough. He was later lovingly raised with the guidance and support of his stepfather, William Farley. He spent his childhood in both Arkansas and Michigan, creating memories and adventures that he often recalled fondly throughout his life.

After completing trade school, Chester began a career that reflected his intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic. He worked as a machinist and tool and die maker for 43 years, taking great pride in his craft and earning the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Beyond his professional life, Chester generously gave his time and talents to the communities he loved. He served as a volunteer firefighter for Braden, Tennessee, was a Civil War cannon crew reenactor who shared his passion for history with others, served as Water Meister for Sun Valley Irrigation Association Unit #2 in San Tan Valley, Arizona, and volunteered as a docent at the Ford House Museum in Mendocino, California.

Chester will be remembered as hardworking, loving, and adventurous. He had a deep appreciation for the world around him and embraced life with curiosity and enthusiasm. His travels took him to remarkable places, including Scotland and Egypt, experiences he treasured and often shared through stories with those he loved. He enjoyed birding, sailing, woodworking, leather crafting, and studying history. He found joy in riding horses, hunting, birdwatching, visiting family, and losing himself in the pages of a good book, especially those written by his favorite author, Tom Clancy.

Those who knew Chester will remember his willingness to lend a helping hand, his outgoing nature, and the genuine friendships he cultivated throughout his life. He had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued, and he never hesitated to offer assistance when someone was in need.

Chester was preceded in death by his father, Charley McKemie; his mother, Betty Kimbrough Farley; his stepfather, William Farley; and his sisters, Patricia Herring and Sharon Yopp.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sally Swope McKemie; his daughter, Cally Dingler, and her husband, Jonathan; his grandchildren, Dalton Claussen and his wife, Lauren, and Callan Claussen; his great-grandchild, Robert Weaver; and his sisters, Marie Gullett and Tina Youngblood. He also leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, and countless individuals whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Peppi’s House and Hospice of the Valley for the kindness, dignity, and comfort they provided to Chester and his loved ones during his final days. Their support and care will never be forgotten.

A private memorial service will be held in Mendocino, California, with the date to be determined by the family.

As Chester's favorite author, Tom Clancy, once wrote, "The point of life was to press on, to do the best you can, to make the world a better place." Chester lived in that spirit through his hard work, his generosity, his love of adventure, and his unwavering devotion to family and friends. His memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.