Rochester Gilchrist

I heard the voice of Jesus say, "Come unto Me and rest, lay down, thou weary one, lay down thy head upon my breast." I came to Jesus as I was, so weary, worn, and sad. I found in Him a resting place, and He has made Me glad.                 Horatius Honor (1846).

On August 5, 2023, Rochester "Rock" Gilchrist heard the voice of Jesus to come and lay down his weary head upon His breast. 

Rock was born to Lacy and Mattie Worley Gilchrist on June 9, 1946. He was raised up in a devoted Christian home and gave his life to Christ while attending Mount Carmel Baptist Church at an early age. Rock was preceded in death by his parents and sister Geraldine.

Rock attended the public schools of Mullins, SC, and graduated from Palmetto Senior High School in 1963. He continued his educational pursuit and attended South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, SC with a degree in Physical Education. He was subsequently drafted into the US Army, served in Vietnam, and received an Honorable Discharge.

Rock later moved to Washington, DC and married Lisa J. White. To this union one son was born, Rashad A. Gilchrist.

Rock was employed by and retired from the DC Department of Recreation. He later returned home to Mullins.

Rock leaves to celebrate his life and legacy his son, Rashad A. Gilchrist, and a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives, In-laws, and special friends... Jackie Troy-Johnson, Billy Witherspoon, Jenean Heatley, Juanita Heatley, Norman Johnson, Spencer Simmons, Bud, and Curly.

We honor the life of our beloved Rochester "Rock" Gilchrist, and was blessed by the love and friendship he gave to us. He was kind and friendly, and never met a stranger. Rest in Peace dear Rock.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rochester Gilchrist, please visit our floral store.