Vassie Chamblee, Jr., 83, of Hartford, CT, entered eternal rest on October 22, 2026.

He was born in Winton, NC on December 13, 1942, son of the late Ernest Vassie Chamblee and Bernice Slade Chamblee.

Vassie, affectionately known to family and friends as “Lil Buddy,” relocated with his family from North Carolina to Hampton, Virginia, at an early age. There, he met the love of his life, Lillian Glover. Their love blossomed into a beautiful relationship, and the two were united in marriage. In October, they joyfully welcomed their son, Tony.

Seeking new opportunities and a better future for their family, Buddy and Lillian eventually relocated to Middletown, Connecticut, where they established their home and built a life together. Both became members of Shiloh Baptist Church at a young age; Buddy was especially known for his famous chopped barbecue, a favorite at church gatherings and special events.

Family meant everything to Buddy, so he brought his five younger siblings from Virginia to Connecticut to live with him and his family. He believed in keeping family close and looking out for his loved ones.

Buddy was also known for his competitive spirit, sharp mind, and legendary card-playing skills. He enjoyed visiting the dog track and the OTB. He also loved playing poker and challenging anyone brave enough to sit across from him at the card table. Whether it was Spades, Gin Rummy, Tonk, or Bid Whist, Buddy was a force to be reckoned with! His skills were unmatched, and he took great pleasure in outplaying his opponents. Beyond his love for family and recreation, Buddy was a hardworking, talented, and ambitious businessman. He began his professional career as a skilled construction worker and became highly experienced in operating heavy-duty trucks and construction equipment. Buddy took a leap of faith and established his own construction company, specializing in paving and driveway services.

His determination and entrepreneurial spirit did not stop there. Buddy later expanded his business ventures by establishing a moving company and opening a used furniture store. Through his businesses, he not only provided valuable services to the community but also created opportunities to help others.

Buddy was a highly respected member of his community, known for his honesty, fairness, generosity, and willingness to lend a helping hand. He believed in treating everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of their circumstances. Whether donating food and furniture, providing free services to those in need, or helping young adults just starting in life, Buddy gave from his heart without expecting anything in return.

Of all his accomplishments, nothing brought Buddy greater joy than his family. He enjoyed going to the Glover’s Family Reunion each year, which brought his wife great joy. He had a special bond with his son Tony, daughter Sheila, and two grandsons, Allen and Tony Jr., and he was especially blessed to live long enough to see the next generation of his family through his great-grandchildren.

He leaves to cherish loving memories, his son, Antonio "Tony" Chamblee and his wife, Loretta of Hartford, CT; a daughter, Sheila Johnson and her husband, Eddie of Culpepper, VA; a brother, Donald Chamblee of Providence, RI; sisters, Linda Jackson on Williamsburg, VA and Yvonne Montrond of Warwick, RI; his grandchildren, Antonio "Tony" Vassie Chamblee and his wife, Tora and Allen Michael and his wife, Clarixa; great grandchildren, Lillan Chamblee, Makayla Chamblee and Christian Chamblee; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his wife, Lillian Chamblee; brothers, Milton Chamblee, Vernon Chamblee and Chester Gaylord Chamblee; and his sisters, Barbara Collins, Mildred Weaver and Alma Wright.

A memorial service to celebrate his life and legacy will be held at a later date.