Joseph Chapman

Joseph S. Chapman ZUNI - Joseph Samuel "J.S." Chapman, 81, suddenly went home to be with the Lord Dec. 18, 2009. He was born in Isle of Wight County, Virginia on May 28, 1928 to the late Sam and Josephine J. Chapman. He was predeceased by sons, Lemuel B. Chapman and Pastor Joseph B. Chapman. J.S. was a retired farmer who began working the family land in the 1940s. A partnership developed between him and his predeceased brother, Leland, that lasted more than four decades. He was a member of Morning Star Baptist Church, Windsor, Va., where he served as a trustee and a member of the choir. He was a former member of the Tidewater Elks Lodge No. 262. He enjoyed fishing and deer hunting. He was also a sports enthusiast and loved playing and watching baseball. In later years, J.S. was an avid domino player with the senior citizens of the Zuni Center. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 59 years, Beatrice D. Chapman; a daughter, Cynthia C. Smith (Lorenzo); granddaughter, NaTasha N. Chapman; daughter-in-law, Marlene B. Chapman; goddaughter, Berlena M. Taylor (Aubrey); a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. A celebration of his life will be held at noon Wednesday, Dec. 23, at Morning Star Baptist Church, 8445 W. Blackwater Road. The Rev. Leland R. Chapman will officiate and the Rev. J.J. Ferguson will eulogize. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Arrangements by Pretlow & Chapman Funeral Home, 658 West Main St., Smithfield, Va.