Chester Dante’ Campbell
Chester Dante’ Campbell, affectionately known as Don and Dondee, was born on July 21, 1987 to the parentage of Chester Lewis Campbell and the late Rosa Louise Colvard Campbell in Monticello. Dante’ departed his earthly home on May 3, 2019.
A celebration of his life will be held today, May 9, at noon at Springfield Missionary Baptist Church with Rev, Dr. Jimmy Horton, pastor, as eulogist. Burial will be in South View Cemetery.
At a very young age, Dante’ accepted Christ as his personal savior. He joined Springfield Baptist Church where he participated in Sunday School, and Boys to Men. Dante’ enjoyed attending church with his family. It was common to see him standing, singing with the choir and saying, “Amen!”
Over the years, Dante participated in Special Olympics, where he ran track and was on the bowling team. He also was a member of the Miracle League, where he played for the Pirates team led by Coach Bubba Hawkins. Dante’ played baseball with the Pirates for more than 20 years. He was known by many in the league as the “Home Run King.”
His mother was a huge advocate for autism awareness and those with special needs. She ensured that Dante’ was able to participate in many activities and became the best self that he could be.
Dante’ was a graduate of Jasper County High School and a member of the Class of 2006. During his senior year in high school, he was named Most School Spirited. Dante’ was an avid fan of the Monticello Hurricanes, supporting the football, basketball, softball, and baseball teams as often as he could. He could often be seen cheering them on excitedly on the sidelines, and in the stands. For many years, he participated as a “ball boy” for the basketball teams.
After graduation, Dante’ attended Putnam/Jasper Support System in Eatonton. While there, he learned many life skills to support him as an adult. He continued to participate in Special Olympics and gained many friendships while being there.
In his spare time, Dante’ enjoyed following his favorite professional and college sports teams to include the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta Hawks, Atlanta Braves, and Georgia Tech. He attended several games over the years. He also enjoyed traveling, dancing, playing his Xbox, and listening to music.
He had a keen memory and was able to remember facts and stats that many are unable to remember. His family and friends would often use him as a reference when traveling and for many events in history. Dante’ was indeed helpful, and brought a great deal of joy and laughter to many people over the years.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosa Louise Colvard Campbell; his grandparents, Rosa Lee Colvard, Theodore Colvard, Sr., Lillie Mae Campbell, and William Campbell; and his uncle, James Campbell.
Left to cherish his memories are his father, Chester Lewis Campbell of Monticello; sisters, Chandra Bell Brown (Charles) of Eatonton, and LeMetra Campbell Dismuke (Ricky) of Buford; nephews and niece, Charles and Cody Brown, and Autumn and Christian Dismuke; uncles, Rev. Theodore Colvard, Jr. (Mildred), Leroy Campbell, and Rev. Preston Campbell (Evangelist Sharon); aunt, Dr. Angela Gordon (Stanley); great aunt, Linda Wise; Godparents, Vickie Bostic and Bobby and Brenda Norris; and many other relatives and friends that adored his presence and happiness.
Smith and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.