James Lewis Chapman, age 87, of Water Valley, MS died peacefully Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at his home with family by his side. He was born March 16, 1932 in Columbia, TN to the late Jim and Eunice (Simmons) Chapman and spent over forty years serving his country in the United States Army. James was a life member of VFW Post 3978 in Oxford, MS and was also a Mason. The joys nearest to his heart were gardening, riding his tractor and his dog Jenny. But he was loved, and was proud of his family most of all.
Visitation is planned for Friday, October 4, 2019 in the Gardiner Room at Seven Oaks Funeral Home from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Services will begin at 10:00 AM Saturday, October 5, 2019 in the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks with Rev. William Wesley and Bro. Jerry Holt officiating. Burial will be in Pinecrest Cemetery with members of Post 3978 serving as pallbearers.
James is survived by two sons, Jimmy Chapman (Donna), Bobby Chapman (Rhonda), all of Water Valley, MS; two daughters, Betty Lou Chapman of Oxford, MS, Debbie Hollister of Water Valley, MS; fifteen grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren; two step-sons, Joe Pat Pilkington of Water Valley, MS, and Jimmy Muncher (Judy) of Nesbit, MS; one step daughter, Brenda Allen (Robert) of Water Valley, MS.
Along with his parents, James was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie Chapman, and one son, Hal McKay.