CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF PATSY RUTH FREEMAN CHESTER AUGUST 10, 1931 – AUGUST 14 , 2014

Patsy Ruth Freeman Chester was born the fifth of 8 children to Byron Arthur Freeman and Leanna Walton-Freeman on August 10, 1931 in Palestine, Texas. she was called home to our Lord on August 14, 2014.

Patsy was an early favorite of the family and in childhood was recognized as a prodigy with exceptional music talent. She learned to play piano in her teen years and was an active musician in her hometown church of Antioch Baptist church. She was an early high school graduate and valedictorian of her class. Her music teacher recommended that she attend Xavier University of Louisiana to flourish and grow her musical talent.

While at Xavier, Patsy made many friends, and was invited as a member into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. After graduation, Patsy returned home and began her career as a music teacher in Greenville, Texas. She married Melvin Chester of Palestine and gave birth to a son, William Chester. Their marriage ended in divorce.

Patsy later moved to Los Angeles to continue teaching music in the Los Angeles City School District where she mentored music students. Participated in a variety of music organizations and served as an accompanist to many groups and churches. Patsy received her Master’s Degree in Education at Pepperdine University and became an aficionado of many types of music, including Sacred, Classical, Contemporary, Traditional and Modern Jazz.

She joined the Alpha Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, in Los Angeles and became a Golden Soror with more than 60 faithful years of service. She delighted in the friendship and activities of her sorority sisters and provided music at many of their gatherings. Patsy was also a member of Holman United Methodist Church and participated in the Holman Choir.

Patsy will be remembered for her lifelong energy and enthusiasm, infectious smile, fondness for travel, and flair for colorful fashion. She was preceded in death by her parents, Byron and Leanna Freeman, brothers William (Bill), Jack, Jim, Byron, and Sisters Marian and Mary Frances. She is survived by her son, William Chester, Brother Vernon Joe Freeman (Shyrlee), nephews Paul and Lauris Freeman, nieces Lora, Devra, Deborah, Nancy, Kathleen, and many other relatives.

Donations in Patsy’s name and memoriam may be sent to:

Holman United Methodist Church 3220 W. Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90018

The South East Symphony of Los Angeles, 158 N. La Brea Ave, Inglewood, CA, 90301

Xavier University of Louisiana, Dept. 3578, P.O. Box 56308, New Orleans, LA 70125-9901, (Online donations: www.xula.edu/alumni/howtogive.html)