Chester "Bill" Colwell

Chester “Bill” Colwell, age 77, of Gainesville, TX, passed away September 15, 2026 in Gainesville.

Bill was born September 12, 1949 in Gainesville and graduated from Gainesville High School. He married Deborah Hackett in 1969 and the couple spent 54 wonderful years together. Mr. Colwell started his career with the railroad, but spent the majority of working life as a carpenter and contractor. He built many homes and businesses in Gainesville that still stand strong today. Mr. Colwell enjoyed spending time at the lake and loved fishing. Most of all, he was a dedicated family man, cherishing his time spent with children and grandchildren. When physically able, he enjoyed attending River Alive Church in Gainesville.

Survived by: son William Bailey Colwell; son Jonathan Eugene Colwell (Jamie Marie); daughter Cristal Suzanne Colwell-Figueroa (David Alexander); grandchildren: Billy, David, Jason, Christian, Emily, Crystal, Hayley, Johnny, Peyton, Hannah, Faith, David, and Daniel; 14 great-grandchildren; sister Juanita Barnett (Juan); and uncle Larry Schuh (Barbara).

Predeceased by: parents William Douglas Colwell and Leona Colwell-Pardus; and brothers: Jerry, Darrell, David, and Michael.

Services are scheduled for Monday, September 21, 2026, at Geo. J. Carroll & Son Funeral Home, Gainesville. The family will begin receiving friends at 9:30 a.m. and a funeral will begin at 10:00 a.m. A committal service at Fairview Cemetery, Gainesville, will immediately follow.