James Robin Chism Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

A life well lived and an example of service for the betterment of others. Our patriarch, foundation, voice of reason and beloved big brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend to innumerable people, James Robin Chism (Rob), transitioned into his eternal life June 11, 2022 with his family encircling him. Although Rob was born with Muscular Dystrophy, he was raised and treated by those involved in his life as a person with no limitations. Rob took that to the extreme and lived his life with more accomplishments, giving, serving and fun than most people without challenges. Through the lifelong care of his mother, family, friends and various caretakers, he lived as an example of service, especially towards kids with physical challenges. Rob was employed for over 22 years with the Tulare County Office of Education as an Adaptive Technology Specialist for kids throughout Tulare County. Rob developed many close friendships. Through his advocation he was instrumental in numerous kids' lives to receive the adaptive technology they needed so as to obtain the same education as their peers. Throughout his life he was a volunteer with Read for Life, The Muscular Dystrophy Association, College of Sequoias tutoring, Big Brothers/Big Sisters Association and Tulare County In Home Supportive Services Advisory Committee. Rob was the chosen recipient of the Muscular Dystrophy Person of Year. Rob received his GED, graduated with an Associates of Arts Degree from College of the Sequoias, was awarded the Fresno State "Golden Key" as an honorary member, and from CSU Dominguez Hills, he earned his Assistive Technology Specialist Certification. Rob is survived by his younger sister Julie Hennesay, her husband Keith, their children, who Rob loved and treated as his own; nephew Erik Hennesay, his wife Chelsea, their children Maesyn & Dillyn; nephew Dustyn Hennesay, his significant other Victoria, and their soon to arrive daughter Dixie Hennesay; his younger brother Brandon Chism, his children Dean, Hudson, and Preslee Chism; in addition, close cousins, Cindy Gale Ackerson and Matt Chism; uncles Larry Chism and James Lovelace; so very loved Aunt, DeAnn Anderson; numerous cousins and extended family. Rob is also survived by his beloved dogs, Hermie and Teensy! Also, his longtime caretakers Lisa Mills (18 years) and Michelle Brown (30+ years) It is well known that Robs close friends throughout his life are innumerable! In lieu of flowers, donations to The Muscular Dystrophy Association, Read for Life or Big Brother/Big Sisters in the remembrance of James Robin Chism would be an honor to him. The remembrance of Robs will lived life will be Thursday, June 23rd at the Sierra Mobile Manor Clubhouse, located at 2301 S Divisadero St, Visalia at 2PM. Friends and family please join us in a relaxed time to honor Rob and share our memories. Thank you for your love, prayers, thoughts and kindness towards our family through this time. Julie, Erik & Dustyn Hennesay

James Robin Chism

August 4, 1961 - June 11, 2022