MARK CHANDLER
Served Others with Hospitality , Caring Spirit
EDUCATOR . MANAGER . CREATIVE ARTIST .
A native of Clarksdale , Mark Chandler grew up in the Mississippi Delta town of Sumner where he lettered and excelled at high school . He continued his education at Delta State University and Meridian Community College – where he would work for more than 24 years teaching students in the College ’ s Hotel and Restaurant Management Program .
Respected by colleagues , friends and students , Chandler believed food could bring people together . Chandler passed away in March 2020 , and his legacy lives on .
Dr . Thomas Huebner , president of Meridian Community College , said the stories told about Chandler had a common theme : his compassion and love for others , especially his students . “ Mark ’ s everyday interactions with people served as a testament to his sweet spirit ,” Dr . Huebner said .
A student said , “ Mark ... taught me a lot about being an instructor and a professional . In particular , he displayed true dedication to his craft this past year . I watched first-hand as ( he ) pushed through a tough illness while continuing to serve his students ... at a time where most others would have focused on themselves and their own well-being , Mark kept serving others .”
Chandler catered many events over the years and was known for his famous bread pudding in many neighboring states – and especially a favorite with the Mississippi Legislators where his dish was always requested at an annual gathering . He was also a columnist for 393 , Meridian Home and Style Magazine . Among some of the collegiate honors Chandler received were MCCer of the Month , Higher Education Appreciation Day Working for Academic Excellence ( HEADWAE ) recipient , and the Mississippi Collegiate Distributive Education Clubs of America ( DECA ) Honorary Life Member . This is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon an educator or business executive by DECA and is awarded based upon dedication and service to the students .
He is survived by his wife , Melody Joy Wiggs Allen , a daughter , Lizzy Mason , and her husband , sister , brothers , nieces and nephews and extended family members .
The MCC Foundation created the Mark Chandler Memorial Scholarship to honor Chandler . “ He was an incredible asset to Meridian Community College and impacted all who knew him ,” said Leia Hill , vice president of institutional advancement and executive director of the MCC Foundation .
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