The earthly life of Joyce E. Chapman of Plain View, Va., came to an end on April 27, 2022 in New Rochelle, N.Y., and her spirit took a place around the throne of God with all the saints who went before her.
Joyce was born in Philadelphia, Pa., to the late Charles and Eva Davidson on Dec. 8, 1937. She accepted Jesus the Christ as Lord and Savior and was baptized at The Miller Memorial Baptist Church. Her love for the Lord led her to a life of service, kindness and helping those in difficult situations. Joyce was educated in the public school system and graduated from the Philadelphia High School for Girls. Her commitment to service led her to the Mercy-Douglass Hospital School of Nursing in Philadelphia where upon graduation she was certified as a Registered Nurse. Later she attended Brooklyn College in New York City, and earned a BA degree with highest honors.
Joyce married the Rev. Wm. Leonard Chapman on April 9, 1960. Three sons were born of this union, William Jr. and twins Mark and Michael. Joyce interrupted her professional career to be at home with her sons until they were well into elementary school and again to support her husband in ministry in New York City. Joyce interrupted her career a third time to be the caregiver for her father when his health began to fail. Her last position as a Registered Nurse was Sanders Assisted Living in Gloucester.
Joyce believed in service. She was an active member of Morning Glory Baptist Church, served as President of the Deaconess Board, and supported her husband in ministry for 15 years. She was a life member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, past President of the New York City Alumnae Chapter, and active in the Williamsburg Alumnae Chapter until her health failed. Service and fellowship were key to Joyce. Her song of life was, “If I can help somebody as I pass along then my living is not in vain.” Joyce enjoyed time with the Gloucester Red Hat Ladies who met for lunch and fun, and a friendly group of sisters known as “The Lunch Bunch.”
A service of thanksgiving for her life of service was held on Friday, April 29, in New Rochelle, N.Y. Tributes were given by son, Michael, and niece, Dr. Lynne Holden. Her husband and son Mark served as clergy to say the last words and send her spirit to the care of keeping of Almighty God.
Joyce leaves to cherish and honor her memory her husband of 62 years, the Rev. Dr. Wm. Leonard Chapman; her sons, William L. Chapman Jr. (Denise); the Rev. Dr. Mark L. Chapman (Rafaella) and Michael L. Chapman (Sea’ven); her granddaughters, Ms. Christina L. Chapman and Ms. Quincey Kai Martin-Chapman; one sister, Mrs. Phyllis Holden; two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Dolores Davidson and Mrs. Joyce Butts; a brother-in-law, Dr. Robert L. Chapman (Rose), and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
To God be the Glory for the wonderful life of His servant, Joyce E. Chapman.