Chester Leroy Croyle

Chester Leroy Croyle, 79, of Salisbury passed away Monday, May 14, 2018 at Novant Health Rowan Medical Center. He was born in Johnstown, PA on February 22, 1939. He joined the Navy and when he was stationed in Charleston, SC he met Anne Bowers at the Christian Servicemen's Center and they attended Youth for Christ. After a brief courtship, he proposed marriage. They were married on June 23, 1962 at Millgrove Bible Church near Lancaster, NY where they made their first home. They were married for almost 56 years. Throughout the years he was involved in many lines of work - truck driver, construction superintendent and master carpenter, law enforcement, and maintenance mechanic for the National Starch Corporation. During his time with the Spencer and Salisbury Police Departments, he was a firearms instructor for the NRA. He was a jack of all trades, teaching his family by example about the value of hard, dedicated work. Not many know, but he was a gifted singer and played guitar. He served at various times as Church choir director and taught Sunday School and served as deacon. His artistic side also expressed itself in scale models of NC lighthouses that are absolutely perfect replications, down to the smallest detail. He made muzzle loaders that were museum quality. He loved creating things and sharing them with others. Chet was a member of North Main Baptist Church. He didn't draw attention to himself, but he found quiet ways to help others when he knew there was a need. He supported charities and missionaries faithfully. He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Pearl Croyle, sister Linda Croyle and brother, Robert Croyle. He is survived by his wife, Anne Croyle, daughter, Marla Young (husband Stephen and daughter, Anna) and son, Jerry Croyle (sons Nathan and David). A private graveside service will be conducted at 9:00 AM Friday, May 18, 2018 at the Salisbury National Cemetery with military honors provided by the US Navy and the Rowan County Honor Guard. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Friday (May 18) at North Main Baptist Church. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to North Main Street Baptist Church, 1501 N. Main Street, Salisbury, NC 28144 or St. Jude’s Research Hospital, Fund Raising Office, 2101 Rexford Road #165W, Charlotte, NC 28211. Summersett Funeral Home is serving the Croyle family. Online condolences may be made at www.summersettfuneralhome.com.

Chester Leroy Croyle

February 22, 1939 - May 14, 2018