Shirley Chapman

Our beloved matriarch, Shirley Ann Chapman, is everywhere, and part of everything. On July 29, 2025, surrounded by family, peacefully, she left her body, and returned to radiance.

Born on September 17, 1936, in New York, NY, to Charles and Marie Vines, Shirley enjoyed school plays, modeling, cooking, and excelled in English and art. Reading, writing, painting, and cooking would become lifelong passions. Shirley met, and fell in love with her classmate, Donald Chapman, when she was 12 years old. A few years after graduating from high school, they married and began a family, eventually, settling in Los Angeles, California. A devoted wife and mother, Shirley stayed home to raise her four children, until they were teenagers, before pursuing a new challenge. She accepted a job, as a kindergarten teacher’s assistant. Utilizing her creativity, she thrived in the classroom. She went back to school, and earned an Associate Degree in Education and Early Childhood Development, from Los Angeles Community College, and become a teacher for neurodivergent learners. She had found her calling. Shirley taught for 30 years, before retiring. She kept in touch with many of her beloved students, as they became successful adults, returning to share their triumphs and their gratitude, until the very end.

Shirley and Donald were married for 67 years. They were dedicated to their children, and gave selflessly to their communities, nurturing a vibrant, extended family.

Perhaps, Shirley will be remembered most, for her loving heart, her biting humor, and her delicious food, all of which, nourished and sustained us. May the resonance of her rich, full laugh, bless our memories. May her compassionate, giving spirit, be a guide, and may her wisdom find us, when we need it.

Shirley Ann Chapman is survived by, her children, daughter, Lanai Chapman, and sons Donald, Charles, and Craig Chapman, and their wives, Madonna, Flor, and Elsa Chapman; and her grandchildren: Isaiah and Cristian Chapman, Raphael, Myrna and Nancy Ayala, and James Alfred Bell, as well as, many cherished, chosen family members, and friends.

No flowers, no gifts, please. Your memories are the greatest gifts.         Please sign the Guestbook.