James David Chapman, age 76, of Waverly Hall, GA passed away in the comfort of his home surrounded by loved ones on Friday January 3, 2020.
Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Friday January 10, 2020 at the Chapel of McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory 8374 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31907, with Bishop Wes Swanson officiating. Interment will follow at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery, with full Navy Honors. The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Thursday January 9, 2020 at the funeral home.
James was born on June 20, 1943 in Savannah, GA. James served in the U.S. Navy at the age of 19 and enjoyed the fellowship of his fellow servicemen. Shortly he married the love of his life, Brenda Chapman (Burns) in the summer of 1964. Together they raised their three boys David, Alex, and Heath.
Through his wreck that left him paralyzed from the waist down, he managed to become a man of true strength and determination. He was able to encourage those around him including wounded Veterans and his family. He was an amazing athlete, leader, teacher and friend. He acquired multiple national records in the areas of swimming and biking. He competed in other competitive sports as well, paving the way for others to be inspired.
James Chapman was a wonderful example of selflessness, helping serve his Church and community. He was a missionary for two years in the state of California with his wife Brenda. And he also served as a Scoutmaster for over twenty five years, and was an active member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
James Chapman was a man of pure muscle and determination. Everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him knew that he was a man of great strength and will. Building cars with his sons and grandchildren brought him great joy. He loved cars and he loved telling stories of all of his adventures with his many fast cars.
James was a man who loved his family most of all. He dedicated his life to setting an example for them in the way he lived his life. He never gave up when things got tough. He built many memories with those he loved, he will be truly missed by all that knew and loved him.
James Chapman was the loving husband of Brenda F. Chapman, devoted father of James Chapman Jr., Jerrod Heath Chapman, and Alexander Duane Chapman. The loving "Grandpa" of Amanda C. Insco, Karalea Bell, Jaxon S. Chapman, Jordan Chapman, Triston Chapman, Konner Chapman, and Isabella Chapman. His great grand-children Emily Insco, Harper Bell, and Ryder Insco. He is also survived by his brothers Rudy R. Chapman, Wayne E. Chapman, and his sister Deloris A. Darling.
Visitation
JAN
9.
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM (EST)
McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory
3874 Gentian Blvd
Columbus, GA, 31907
Funeral Service
JAN
10.
11:00 AM (EST)
McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory
3874 Gentian Blvd
Columbus, GA, 31907