Joel H. CHAPMAN

SMITHFIELD - Joel Holland Chapman, 93, departed his earthly life Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009 at Riverside Convalescent Center, Smithfield. He was the devoted husband of Virginia Betts Chapman for 61 years.
Born March 6, 1916, in Smithfield, he was the son of the late Henly Charles Chapman and Louise Holland Chapman. Joel was the first Eagle Scout in Smithfield. He was a graduate of Smithfield High School and traveled to the FFA Convention in Kansas City in 1934 to receive an agricultural award. He was a World War II Army veteran serving in Okinawa.
He worked at his father's hardware store in Smithfield and later became a successful insurance agent, but his real life passion was in gardening. He prided himself in his tireless efforts and the abundant garden that he produced each year. Mr. Chapman was a member of the Smithfield Baptist Church and was a charter member of the Smithfield Ruritan Club.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Chapman is survived by three daughters, Sarah Rogers and her husband, Geoff of Newport News, Louise Riley and her husband, Bill of Lynchburg, and Susan Anderson and her husband, Greg of Charlottesville; one brother, Fred R. Chapman of Virginia Beach, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by one brother, Charles Henly Chapman and one sister, Tillie C. Fisher.
A funeral service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 7, at Colonial Funeral Home, with the Rev. Dr. Donald R. Rhoton officiating. Burial will follow in Ivy Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8 p.m. tonight, at the funeral home.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Smithfield Baptist Church, 100 Wainwright Drive, Smithfield, VA 23430 or a charity of choice.
Arrangements are in the care of Colonial Funeral Home, Smithfield. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.