Chester Kimber passed away at home on August20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 76. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, whose life has been a testament to love, kindness and dedication. He was born on March 28, 1950, in Clayton, New Mexico. Chester was the cherished son of Clarence and Marguerite Kimber, who instilled in him the values of hard work and compassion that he carried throughout his life.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the Clayton Methodist Church with Pastor Kenneth W. Tidmore and Pastor Terrell Jones officiating. Burial will follow in the Fairview Cemetery south of Amistad by Hass Funeral Directors of Clayton.

Chester’s journey began in the close-knit community of Amistad, where he graduated from Amistad High School in 1968. He furthered his education at New Mexico State University. Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics in 1972, setting the foundation for a life rich in service and community involvement.

In a love story for the ages, Chester married Yolanda Gonzalez on June 12, 1976, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Together, they created a nurturing home on the family ranch in Amistad, raising three wonderful sons and recently celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, a milestone that speaks to their enduring partnership.

Chester’s life was one of service and devotion, as seen through his active membership in the Kairos Prison Ministry since 1999, where he tirelessly worked to uplift others, A dedicated member of the Mosquero Community Church, Chester was also instrumental as one of the founding fathers of the Amistad Fire Department, serving as an EMT and providing aid with a compassionate heart.

A man of many talents, Chester found joy in varied pursuits. He traveled widely, played basketball well into his seventies, and shared his musical gifts with nursing home residents. Known for his quick wit and warm smile, Chester had the rare gift of making everyone feel welcome and valued, a quality that endeared him to all who knew him. Chester’s mission was to spread God’s love to everyone he met.

Chester’s family was his pride and joy. He is survived by his devoted wife, Yolanda; his sons Matthew and wife Karla and their twins, Jarrod and Jordan and Andrew and his wife Lindsay and their children, Mia and Graham. 3 sisters, Emilie Underwood and husband Chris, Shirley Baines and husband David and Barbara Stewart and husband Doug, 3 brothers, Richard Kimber and wife Rose, Eddie Kimber and Gary Kimber.

Chester was preceded in death by a son, Daniel Kimber on March 4, 2011, his parents, Clarence and Marguerite Kimber, 2 sisters, Rose Mary Girard and her husband Lloyd and Patsy Parman and her husband T.R., by his mother and father-in-law, Ida and Americo Gonzalez and by a sister-in-law, Gertrude Kimber.

In honor of Chester’s life and legacy, the family suggests donations be made to the Amistad Association, Inc., an organization close to his heart. The address for donations is P. O. Box 200, Amistad, New Mexico 88410.

Chester’s family wishes to express their heeartfelt gratitude to all the doctors, nurses and hospice care workers who provided unwavering support during his battle with cancer.

A life well-lived, Chester Kimber’s legacy of love, laughter and service will continue to inspire and guide all those who were fortunate to know him. Thank you for a lifetime of beautiful memories and unconditional love. Until we meet again.