“Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.”
Marie Pinkett Chester, 88 years old of Rhodesdale, MD, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, August 14, 2025, surrounded by her son and brother. Born on March 13, 1937, to the late Elder Willie and Sarah Cooper Pinkett, Marie's life was a testament to love, faith, and service.
Marie grew up in the Linkwood and Hawkeye area. She attended schools in Dorchester County. After leaving high school, she moved to Philadelphia, PA, to pursue a career in Cosmetology.
While in Philadelphia, she met the love of her life, Leon Chester, Jr. After a brief courtship, they married on April 27, 1956. From that union, a son named Leon Spry Chester, III, was born. Leon and Marie returned to Rhodesdale, Maryland, where they settled down and made it their home.
Sister Chester gave her life to the Lord over 60 years ago. She attended her father's church up to his passing. Afterwards, she became a devoted member of the National Church of God, in Hurlock, Md. She served as the Vice President of the Missionary Board and was a member of the Usher and Stewardship Boards until her passing.
Marie worked for Caroline Poultry, Hurlock Daycare, Eastern Shore Hospital, and later retired from Warwick Manor.
Marie and her late husband were dynamic entrepreneurs, boldly exploring a range of industries such as farming, trucking, and poultry farming. Their diverse ventures not only showcased their innovative spirit but also highlighted their commitment to building a successful legacy through hard work and determination.
Marie, known as Sister Chester, was a pillar of her family and community. She was a devoted mother, a loving sister, a sincere friend, and a dedicated wife. Her caring nature and willingness to help those in need, especially during times of illness, left a lasting impact. Her nurturing hands were always open, offering advice and assistance in planning family events. Her dedication to her community was unwavering.
Marie is survived by her son, Leon Spry Chester, III of Rhodesdale, MD; four grandchildren, Aisha Evon Waples, Laurel, DE, Crissee Marie Gates (Robert) Salisbury, MD, Ekricka Lee Spry Chester Trader (Tyrone) Salisbury, MD, Dalra Lawrence, Salisbury, MD, ten great grandchildren: Alexander (AJ) Tingle, Aexazia Mills, Victoria Hudson, Morgan Hudson, Eric Spruill, Jamila Spruill, Tyrone (T.J) Trader, Daniel Trader, Johmon Handy and Jada Handy: brother, James Pinkett and his wife, Pauline of Rhodesdale, Md.; two sisters, Linda Pinkett of Hurlock, MD, Shirlene Harris of Baltimore, MD.; brother-in-law: Daniel Hughes of Hurlock, MD; beloved cousins: Deborah Humphrey, Cambridge, MD; Patricia White of Secretary, MD, Amanda Spence of Salisbury, MD, and Robert (Bobby) Jones of Thompson Town, MD: sister, Mildred Symonette who sits beside her every Sunday in church, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband of fifty-seven years, Leon Chester, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Victoria Renee Handy: sisters, Oneida Stevens, Gertrude Hughes, Mable Holland, and brother Allen Pinkett.
The passing of Marie has left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her absence is deeply felt, and her memory will be cherished forever.
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