Lonnie Paul Chastain, Sr.

Lonnie Paul Chastain Sr.

August 8, 1944 – May 25, 2026

Heroes are born. Legends never die.

Lonnie Paul Chastain Sr. was a giant among men — gravity itself. He had a way of making everyone around him feel special just by being near him, and the stories of his life read less like memory and more like legend. He was funny, clever, and quick-witted, the kind of man who could make you laugh before you saw it coming. He had a nickname for everyone, a story for every occasion, and a warmth that made people feel known. He was our hero and the legend of our family.

Born and raised in Gainesville, Georgia, Lonnie spent his life between his hometown and Ball Ground, Georgia — but wherever he was, he was the heart of the room.

Lonnie was an antique car enthusiast and renovator, a collector, and a passionate motorcycle rider. He was a devoted student of history — particularly World War II — and could hold court on the subject for hours. He loved a good western, held a special place in his heart for Gone with the Wind, and never turned down a good meal or a good conversation.

He was also, quite simply, a miracle. Thirty years ago, Lonnie received a liver transplant and went on to become the longest-surviving liver transplant recipient in the Southeast. He beat every odd, defied every expectation, and lived fully until the very end. He was just a good man.

Lonnie is survived by his daughter, Lisa Elaine Chastain; his son, Lonnie Paul Chastain Jr.; his grandchildren, Jessica Whitney Moore and Richard Blake Moore; and his sisters, Margie Allen, Shirley Brisbois, and Annell Chastain. He is preceded in death by his father, Paul Chastain; his mother, Lucille Chastain; and his first wife, Martha Reed Chastain.

A visitation will be held Friday, May 29th from 11:00am to 12:00pm at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Riverside Drive in Gainesville, Georgia, followed by a service from 12:00pm to 1:00pm officiated by Omi Millwood. The family will host a meal on site following the service — because Papa Lonnie loved a good meal and a good conversation, and we plan to have both.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the funeral home in his memory, are gratefully welcomed by the family.

Memorial Park Riverside Chapel, 989 Riverside Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-6200. For online condolences www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com  

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