James Chapman

James Chapman, age 82, affectionately called "POPCORN" by many, was born on April 27, 1941 in Livingston, AL to Robert and Mattie Abrams Chapman. He grew up in the city of York. AL and was very proud of his hometown. James often spoke about learning how to garden with his Grandmother, Susie Chapman where he was glued to her hip at the age of 5. As a result of his passion for gardening, he developed into a Master Gardener. For over 60 years, James cultivated what we now call Urban Gardening. He worked a big plot of land up until he got his wings. Many people looked forward to his harvest. Gardening was just one of many ways that he was of service and was respected by many people. James also had a passion for fishing. His fishing skills were extraordinary. Anyone who went fishing with him should know he was “The Champion”. Because of his fishing skills, there were many fish fry’s and dinners. Service of Memory and Life Celebration in Alabama is slated for Saturday, April 6, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. from Johnson Baptist Church, Carl Turk Road, Livingston with interment following in Johnson Cemetery. Mr. Chapman will lie in repose one hour prior to funeral time for visitation from family and friends. For those unable to attend his services, you may view from 3-6:00 p.m. Friday evening (April 5th) in the Weatherly Repose Room. James accepted Christ at an early age at Johnson Baptist Church located in Livingston, AL. He was a member of Faith Mission Church where he was a faithful trustee. James was employed by Armor & Swift packing houses. He retired as a 3rd Grade Engineer from Omaha Public Schools and also was the Vice President of the SEIU Local 226 Service Employees Union. James departed this life on March 17, 2024. He is joined in Heaven with is parents, Deacon Robert and Mattie Chapman; his eldest son, James, and five (5) siblings: Eddie, Robert, Jeff Chapman Sr., Martha Fountain and Mary Joyce Clark. James was married to and survived by his wife and queen, Marion Joyce Rainey Chapman for 61 years; his sons - Craig (Ella Amanda) Chapman, Edward (Jody) Chapman, all of Minneapolis, MN; Daughters - Darla Wilson and Doriette (Eric) Jordan of Omaha, NE; brothers - Eugene (Carlotta), Ruben "Blake" (Jackie), all of Omaha, NE; Sisters - Susie Thompson and Alberta (Jimmie Lee, deceased) Knighton of York, AL; twenty (21) grandchildren and thirty four (34) great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, godchildren, and an extended family and friends. James was a husband, father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Uncle, Mentor, Teacher, Cousin, and Friend. James was a man’s man! He was a great Protector, Provider and Leader. He was loved and respected by many and will be truly missed! To the entire Chapman Family, we at Weatherly Funeral Home offer to each of you our most sincere and heartfelt sympathy and condolences. Our prayer remains that your abiding faith in God will continue to comfort, to strengthen and sustain you during your time of bereavement.