Solved.
NOTE:
When world was synced over, the "cheats" option is defaulted to ON. So, by not editing options before opening world, we inadvertently disabled achievements. Maybe this can default to OFF for synced or new creations?
Re-tried a couple and def not working. Cobble chest attached. Tried single and double chest full. Also, did not receive Cheating Death (totem), The Lie, Repopulation, Smelt Everything, Artificial Selection, et al. Last achievement was registered 2-18-2018 and none since that date.
I am on console (bedrock) xbox one and just respawned to my death saying i fell from a high place. But I saved on ground level directly next to my bed. There is no way I should have fallen from anywhere and cannot find stuff nearby anywhere. I was level 36 with several diamond tools and diamond armor so I am really ticked right about now. I don't know how to include game info for verification.