Diva Jewell Chastain

Diva Jewell (Staton) Chastain, a cherished matriarch and beacon of warmth, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025, at the age of 95 in Berrien Springs, Michigan. Born on March 17, 1929, in Beech Grove, Arkansas, to Audie Ollis Staton and Emily (Brashears) Staton, Diva's life was a testament to love, dedication, and the joy of family.

Diva's journey began alongside her five siblings, Bert, Delmer, Wendell, Faye, and Phyllis, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond. Her early years on the family's cotton farm instilled in her a profound work ethic and a love for the earth's beauty, which blossomed throughout her life in her stunning gardens.

On June 1, 1946, Diva married the love of her life, Harry Chastain, and together they built a life filled with laughter, support, and unwavering commitment. Their union was blessed with five wonderful children: Pat, Ken, Regina, Eddie, and Beverly, who would become the center of Diva's world. She was a devoted mother, guiding her children with a gentle hand and an open heart.

Throughout her life, Diva was known for her loving nature and generous spirit. She worked diligently at Schug Drug and Berrien Springs Schools, and she never forgot her roots as a cotton farmer.

Diva's talents were many, but she was particularly renowned for her skill in crocheting. Each stitch was a symbol of her love, and she made sure every family member was wrapped in the warmth of a blanket she had crafted. Her grandkids were her pride and joy, and she never missed an opportunity to support them in school programs and sports, always cheering the loudest from the stands.

The Chastain home was a hub of hospitality, thanks in no small part to Diva's welcoming nature. For 50 years, she hosted monthly family dinners, her table extending to accommodate 25 to 40 people, a tradition that knit the family even closer together. She was indeed the glue of the family, creating a legacy of togetherness that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Diva Jewell (Staton) Chastain was preceded in death by her parents, Audie and Emily Staton; her beloved husband, Harry Chastain; three children, Eddie Chastain, Regina Pallas, and Beverly Chastain; and her siblings. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her children, Pat McCarty (Stephen Lafluer) and Ken (Judy), grandchildren Cheri Morales, Kimberli Nagy, Toni Davis, Chet McCarty, Sheila Snyder, Stephanie Martin, Missy DeForest, Jodi Haygood, Beth Davey, Marie Medic, and extended grandkids Mike McCarty, Brandi Hayes, and Katy Boots, 39 great-grandchildren, and 22 great-great-grandchildren. She touched many lives with her kindness and will be remembered by all. 

As we bid farewell to Diva, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life filled with purpose, joy, and an abundance of love.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Diva’s memory and honor to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Allred Funeral Home in Berrien Springs, Michigan. A funeral service will be held at Allred Funeral Home on January 27, 2025 at 3:00 PM. A time of visitation for family and friends will occur two hours prior to the service at Allred Funeral Home from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.