It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Chandler Gilchrist on March 6, 2026. Born in Sumter, SC on July 30, 1942, he was the son of the late Wilson Chandler Gilchrist and Mary Eva Johnson Gilchrist.

Michael was a graduate of Sumter Technical College with an Associate Degree in Industrial Technical and a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Management. His career was a testament to his dedication and commitment to the safety of others. He served the United States Navy with distinction, worked for DuPont for 28 years as an Area Engineer, and retired from the South Carolina Department of Transportation.

A committed member of his community, Michael was a member of Harvest Church in Lexington and the Gideons International. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 17 in Camden, S.C. An avid hunter, fisherman, and sport shooter, Michael found joy and peace in the great outdoors.

He was a man of faith, a loving and devoted husband to Linda Louise Twombley Gilchrist. He is also survived by his daughters, April Gilchrist Thomas (Eric) of Lakeland, FL and Michelle Gilchrist Marcus (Glenn) of Mt. Pleasant, SC; sister, Jan Gilchrist Helsel (Steve) of Florence, S.C.; and grandchildren Alaine Ingram (Cameron), Austin Branham (Nicole), Brandon Marcus, Kayla Marcus, Drew Burgess, Joel Thomas, and Laura Thomas.  He was predeceased by a daughter, Angel Gilchrist Burgess (Brian).

A celebration of life for Michael will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 12:30 pm at Powers Funeral Home, 832 Ridgeway Road, Lugoff, South Carolina, 29078. A military burial service will follow on the same day at 2:00 pm at Fort Jackson National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital or Gideons International.