Carolyn Deyette Chester

Carolyn Deyette Chester, age 86, of Harford County, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 28, 2026, in Newark, Delaware.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Carolyn was the beloved daughter of the late Carlton Thomas Austin and the late Vera Deyette (Carr) Austin. She was the devoted wife of the late David Emil Chester, Sr., with whom she shared many years of marriage.

Carolyn spent most of her life in Harford County, where she built a life centered on faith, family, and friendship. She was a faithful attendee of Bel Air United Methodist Church and was an active member of the church's Prayer Shawl Ministry, lovingly creating shawls that brought comfort to others.

She found joy in life's simple pleasures. Carolyn loved tending to her beautiful gardens and looked forward to luncheons with her friends at Red Lobster. Family outings were always special to her, especially visits to Burger King where she faithfully ordered a #5 meal. Her children would always surprise her with a Burger King crown, which she insisted she didn't want—but quietly kept every one as treasured keepsakes. Above all, Carolyn was a devoted mother who loved caring for her children and creating cherished memories during family vacations at the ocean. She also shared a special bond with her son's dog, Koda, whose playful antics kept her entertained, even if he occasionally tested her patience.

In addition to her husband, Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Carlton Thomas Austin and Vera Deyette (Carr) Austin, and her brother, Thomas Austin.

She is lovingly survived by her sons, David E. Chester, Jr., and Kenny A. Chester; her daughter, Teri D. Hart and her husband, Steven; numerous beloved grandchildren; numerous cherished great-grandchildren; her brother, Robert Austin; and many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to ChristianaCare can be mailed to the ChristianaCare Office of Philanthropy, 4000 Nexus Drive, Suite W3-300, Wilmington, DE 19803 (payable to Christiana Care Health System, noting 'Christiana Hospital ICU' in the memo). Contributions to wildlife conservation can be mailed to the Susquehannock Wildlife Society, 1725 Trappe Church Road, Darlington, MD 21034."