Pamela Jeanne Arnold Chilton

Pamela Jeanne Arnold Chilton passed away peacefully at her home on September 22, 2026, surrounded by those who loved her unconditionally and whole heartedly. Pam was born in 1947 in Chicago, IL. Her father served in the Navy, and the family moved to Nashville when he retired — though Pam made countless trips back to Chicago to see her beloved grandfather and grandmother, “Poochi.” She attended Julia Green, Percy Priest, and Hillsboro High School, where she was a synchronized swimmer and a member of the Highschool sorority, Kappa.

In 1968, Pam joined American Airlines as a flight attendant — a decision that ignited a lifelong love of travel. For ten years she thrived in the sky, finding joy in serving others and exploring the world. She traveled to countless beautiful and unique places, but always said her favorite was San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, whose culture she fell in love with and shared with everyone.

Based first in Boston and later transferred to Dallas, Pam met her first husband, Steve, and began what she called her “first life.” During their 21 years together, she helped raise Steve’s son, Jon, as her own — a love she carries to this day. In 1979, Pam and Steve welcomed their daughter, Lauren, into the world and Pam retired from flying to embrace motherhood. She spent her years in Texas immersed in her passions for jewelry and estate sales, working part-time at the World Apparel Mart during the Dallas market. She knew everything there was to know about fashion, decor, and vintage jewelry. Texas, and the many friends she made there, always held a special place in her heart.

In her “second life,” Pam moved back to Nashville and reconnected with her high school sweetheart, Bobby Chilton. They married and shared 24 wonderful years together until his passing in March 2016. Pam and Bobby loved entertaining, dancing, and live music, and were the life of every party they threw or attended. They blended their families beautifully, and Pam cherished Bobby’s children, Rob and Courtenay, and their families as her own. Their home was filled with holidays, milestones, laughter, and their beloved dogs, Harry, Fred, and Mick — Mick remaining faithfully by Pam’s side until her final breath.

Pam, better known as Yaya to her grandsons, never met a stranger. She had a gift for drawing out people’s stories and making everyone she met feel special and truly seen. God blessed her with this gift, and she so fully shared it with others. If you had the honor of meeting Pam or spending any time with her, you no doubt walked away feeling connected to her. She was genuinely curious about everyone’s journey and was extremely intentional in each interaction, whether with someone at the grocery store or gathered at a family celebration. You knew she loved you, and you knew she sincerely wanted to know you. That true sense of being known and loved so fully by someone will be deeply missed. Pam’s light shone so brightly, and her sparkle will live on in all those she loved dearly.

She is survived by her devoted daughter, Lauren Ross (Jackson); grandsons Hudson and Lock; stepson Jon Rickenbacher (FL); her beloved puppy Mick and wonderful friends who loved her dearly.

Our family extends deep gratitude to Pam’s caregivers, who lovingly and patiently supported her for three years — not only Pam, but our entire family. They were devoted to her care, advocated for her and brought a calming presence into her home. A special thanks to Gentiva Hospice, and to the best hospice nurses around, Lauren, Rachel and Megan.

A service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, on October 12th at 1pm with a visitation in the Cheek House, proceeding from 11:30am until time of service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 4815 Franklin Road, Nashville 37220.

Arrangements in the care of Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, Nashville, TN (615) 857-9955. We proudly remain locally owned & operated.