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Maria Chapman Obituary
The girl, Maria, was hit in a driveway on the family residence Wednesday afternoon by a Toyota Land Cruiser driven by her teenage brother, said Laura McPherson, a spokesman for the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
McPherson said no charges are expected.
"It looks like a tragic accident," she said.
She said several members of the Chapman family witnessed the accident, which happened in Williamson County just south of Nashville.
The brother apparently did not see the little girl, McPherson said. She did not have the name or exact age of the brother, only that he is an older teenager.
The girl died later at Vanderbilt Medical Center, hospital spokeswoman Laurie Holloway said.
Chapman, originally from Paducah, Ky., and his wife have promoted international adoption and have three daughters from China, including Maria.
Chapman has won five Grammy awards and 51 Dove awards from the Gospel Music Association.
The singer's Web site said that Chapman and his wife, Mary Beth, were persuaded by their oldest daughter to adopt a girl from China. The experience led the family to adopt two more children and create Shaohannah's Hope, a foundation and ministry to financially assist thousands of couples in adoption.
The Chapmans did missionary work at Chinese orphanages in 2006 and 2007, according to the Web site.
"After our first trip to China, my wife and I knew our lives were changing - our eyes and hearts were opening to how big God really is, and we have wanted to experience more of that," Chapman says on the Web site. "We've really wondered whether or not we should just go to China and stay there. But I don't think so. I believe God is saying, 'I want you to go, get your heart broken, your eyes opened, and then take this story back to the church in America and around the world."'
Chapman also has released a book about being a father entitled "Cinderella: The Love of Daddy and his Princess."
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
828 Entries
chloe
October 29, 2021
soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo sorry
Charity Tipton
February 23, 2019
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Rhonda
March 27, 2018
Your family remains in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda Rogler
May 20, 2017
Steven and Mary Beth just want to say just how sorry I am that you have to go through this unbearable grief. If I could take all your
pain away and have Maria back with you I would do it in a heartbeat I know it is hard losing someone we love so dearly and if it wasn't for our faith we would be lost I will always pray for your family love all of you. Just a devoted fan
How you can show support
rebeaa wheb
July 13, 2016
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Sandra Pampena
June 16, 2014
Steven Chapman, your song Cinderella and the passion I felt and saw while you sang this live video on stage made me want read more about the singer. Little did I know that I would read a story about Maria Sue and your Christian Family. I never met someone like you in my lifetime but you sharing your music in faith and sharing your grief with the God given platform you have I got to feel this feeling. I did not come to this story by accident. It was God showing me some of life lessons to learn from this. There are so many emotions I feel right now, so I will pray on it. Maria, God Bless You Little Angel. Its been five years since your death and you still are touching lives. Enjoy Gods Big table filled with fruit you asked your mother about, and save a seat for me. It was to soon for your family to lose you, but, this is Gods Earth and He knows the reason. I will trust in God. Continue to RIP and be your families personal "Angel In Heaven."
Donna Rusnak
May 22, 2014
She is in heaven with my Olivia Sarah. Both are praising Jesus! Our loss is part of heaven's eternal beauty. We will be reunited one day.
Steven Elam
May 21, 2014
Beautiful little girl. Dancing with Jesus now. Hoping your son does well through this tragedy. Courage in hard times gives healing.
Jordan Wooten
May 1, 2013
I have no idea what to say about this but you made my heart sink to my stomach when I heard about you.
June 17, 2012
I never knew you, Maria but when I first saw you I thought you were the prettiest little girl ever. You've made an impact on everyone. Have fun in Heaven sweetheart. I hope to meet you in God's big house. For a little girl, you really do have some big wings.<3 ~A.s.h.
Matthew Fletcher
February 27, 2012
Maria Sue I didn't get the honor of meeting you but I know I love you just as God loves you. And yes God really does have a big big house. See.
January 6, 2012
im so sorry for your loss and i love your song "Cinderella" when i found out why u wrote that song i started cryng because that song is really good and sad!!!!! :(
Valerie Pritchard
June 15, 2011
Maria I just finished reading your mommies book . It made me both laugh and cry and find an even closer relationship with God, Even after your death your life has touched me thank you.
Joyce Ptak
November 24, 2010
Chapman Family:
A tragic loss precisely like this loss of Maria Sue Chapman happened on May 31, 2008 (ten days later) of my nephew, Michael Patrick Ptak in Bristol, CT. His nickname was also "little dude" -- which I read about in Mary Beth's book. Only in Michael's case it was his father pulling into the driveway -- my brother -- who was driving. I couldn't believe the dates were so close together and that they both shared the same nickname. I CAN imagine the pain you have all felt as I've seen it deeply thrust upon my brother and our family; but we are survivors and have just begun to find our "new normal" in our lives after 2 1/2 years. Finding out about Little Dude - Maria - made me realize we are not alone even though thousands of miles separate our families.
Joyce Ann Ptak, Bristol CT
Daniel Van Ness
August 6, 2010
This is so devastating than when Queen's lead singer Freddie Mercury had passed away from AIDS at the age of 45 back in 1991 and when Dom Deluise passed away at the age of 75 last year in 2009.
Cheryl Pennington
June 25, 2010
What a tragic death for this famly. My heart goes out to you, Chapman family. RIP little one. You are now your familys' gardian angel.
Roxanne Balau
May 23, 2010
A Candle. In memory of Maria Sue...
Mr.& Mrs. Chapman,prayers for you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss... May God give you peace and all the comfort you still need....
Joseph Johnson
April 26, 2010
Mr. and Mrs. Chapman i am astounded by the fact that at the circumstances the devil placed in front of you you have overcome the trouble of losing miss maria sue... i am a huge fan but without the music industry you would not have been able to have the support of the whole christian world behind you saying that you know miss maria is now praising your king everyday and will not know pain another day in the world... just want to send my condolenses to you and your family...
Joseph Johnson
Cayce Frierson
April 26, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are still with y'all. R.I.P. Maria. You have no idea how much your family misses you and wants you back.
December 28, 2009
I just started listening to my christian music radio station, and realized you are a very passionate artist! when i heard about Maria Sue, i started to cry. i am only 13, and i don't know what it is like to lose a sibling or daughter, but i can imagine, HORIBLE. my prayers are with you.
~13 year-old grl:D
Allie Titone
November 20, 2009
Steven and Mary Beth,
I hope you are able to read this!
Your family inspires me so much in my own walk with Jesus Christ! Thank you so much for being such great examples of his love! My prayers for you and your precious Cinderella are with you!!! My Email is [email protected]
I pray that one day God gives me the oportunity to grow into half the beautiful woman you are Mary Beth!
Tiffany Keller
May 23, 2009
Dear Chapman Family,
I know it's been a difficult year for you, without Maria. I hope you feel the love & support of your family, friends, & fans. We're praying for you! God Bless you!
Lisa Dempsey
May 22, 2009
My heart goes out to the Chapman Family today. Your sweet little Maria Sue is alway's remembered.
Nikki & Katie Brenic
April 10, 2009
I just thought today of coming acrossed the guest book to say that you inspire me & many I know to not give up, even in the worst of times. I cry still every time I hear Cinderella; my 8 yr old lil girl & I cry and hold eachother as we sing it. we think of your loss often, and still pray for you every day, for confort and peace. Every time I hear Cinderella & Yours, I think of how precious life is, and what a bklessing my 3 beautiful children are to me. I have lost pregnancies and mourned greatly, and cannot begin to imagine the pain of losing your little girl. Be still and know God is with you always, and that God is holding Maria in his loving arms. We love you! God Bless you! the Brenic Family
Glen Hausfeld
January 7, 2009
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Sheronne Smith
December 9, 2008
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Katie G.
November 20, 2008
My friend introduced me to the song Cinderella this morning. I was listening to it in school and I couldn't help myself from crying. I am deeply sorry for your loss. Maria Sue seemed like a fun, bright, shining little girl. She is in a good place right now. My simpathy for the family especially Will. God is taking good care of her and is taking care of you too.
God bless
hannah sharpe
November 5, 2008
hi i am hannah and i do not know this little girl but she smes so sweet and i am sorry about your lose but she will always be your little cindrella and she is in heaven with all the other cindrellas and she is probley looking down at you saying what a good dad you are and how she ahd such a good life with you
kelley c.
November 1, 2008
Chapman Family,
I want you to know your family is in my thoughts and prayers. I think of you often, as I do Maria. We lost of first born son six years ago to SIDS. A year and a half later we adopted our daughter, Emily, from China. Then went on to have two more bio children. I know your pain and my heart goes out to you. I'm sure Maria is in Heaven playing with our son, Grayson. You all will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Kelley
October 16, 2008
Dear Steven, Mary Beth & Family,
It has taken me three and a half years (today) to write these heartfelt words to your family. And now, since your beautiful daughter Maria has gone home to be with the Lord, along with our daughter Kelly, it is past time to say thank you.
Our daughter, Kelly Ann Love, was 18 years old when her short time here ended on April 16th 2005. She was in a fatal car accident. We lost one of our two children in that moment. In such a time you must be wondering why I want to say thank you, so I will do my best to explain.
Many years ago when our children were very young, we had friends introduce us to Christian music. They gave us one of your CD's and invited us to go see you in concert. We were hooked from that moment. Not only did we make unforgettable memories, but we were forever touched by your stories and your love of Christ. What an incredible ministry! We HAD to go to your concerts from then on if it was in any rational driving distance. Our family was fortunate to attend in many cities as we moved about every two years due to my husbands Navy career.
As a family, our commitment to Christ was greatly influenced by your ministry. Both of our children became hooked on Christian music (with yours at #1) and Kelly became an amazing drummer. You showed us a different side of Christianity that helped mold our family.
I know one day we will all meet in our heavenly home with Maria and Kelly at the gates of heaven ready to welcome us. At Kelly's funeral her youth pastor said that when he thought of Kelly, he thought of the word WELCOME-meaning access to one's heart. She knew how to live every moment she was given as though she realized that life here is precious and short.
I can't even begin to describe Kelly. But, that is not what I want to express. I just wanted your family to know that we are forever grateful for helping lead us to the Lord and to hold onto Him during this journey. We will continue to pray for your family as you continue your own journey of grief. When we heard about Maria, my husband and I felt our hearts breaking for your family. I have seen the interviews that you all have done and am amazed by the grace, dignity and strength that you all have.
Your music continues to inspire us, as it did many people at Kelly's funeral, especially "With Hope". Although the words are sad, they are equally beautiful. Thank You.
I would love for you to visit Kelly's pages on Legacy and read a little about her (DOB 02-13-87). I hope to one day be able to push through some of the grief and attend another one of your concerts.
Thank you for sharing these delicate times and stories about your family through your website and blog. Please know that another family cares deeply, understands your pain and continues to pray for you all.
Your friends in Christ,
Terri & Craig Love
Michelle Thacker
August 21, 2008
Dear Chapman Family:
There are no words to express
how sorry I am about the death of
five year old, Maria Sue and all of you have my deepest sympathy,
but I truly believe that all of you
can eventually recover from this terrible tragedy even though it might
sometimes feel as if you're never gonna recover from the death of
Maria Sue, but continue to KEEP YOUR FAITH because recovery will
someday reach your family.
Will Chapman, my prayers are especially with you because it's my assumption that you're suffering worse than all of your family but,
NEVER BLAME YOURSELF because what happened was NEVER YOUR FAULT.
Everybody HANG IN THERE and trust God to heal your suffering.
Keith & Michelle Amstutz
August 20, 2008
Dear Chapman Family,
With Deepest Sympathy in the loss of your beautiful daughter. My husband came home last night telling me about the Cinderella song & my friend shared with me today about your interview. I feel connected to you although we have never met. I felt the need for some contact with you!! We lost our 22nd year old son nearly 11 months ago. I think this is the hardest cross we will ever have to bear. We can't imagine anything worse. Joshua was on his motorcycle not far from our home & from what we understand the truck did not see him... You remain in our thoughts & prayers!! May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Brittany Cobb
August 16, 2008
I am so srry to hear about this lost she died a day before my moms birhtday which we had a funearld on anyway. I am srry. I love the song wrote about her"Cinderalla". I love that song so much and I give all my concerns to the family in this tready. I am really srry
Allen, Toni, Braylee, Ashlee Reidy
August 8, 2008
We too have adopted 2 beautiful daughters from China, so your story has really touched our hearts. She is safe in the arms of God now and watching over all of you. Our hearts go out to you. God Bless.
Donna
August 8, 2008
Maria,
You are truly a beautiful angel. I do not know you and your family but I do pray for you all. May you keep watch over your mommy and daddy and the rest of your family. Play with the angels baby. RIP !
Mary Beth Curran
August 8, 2008
My Dear Friends, the Chapman Family,
I want to thank you for sharing your private lives with us. The loss of Maria Sue is such a great cross to bear. My heart goes out to Will especially since I was involved in a very similar accident in front of my own house. My love and condolences to all of you. Your friend MB.
Wanisha
July 28, 2008
Please accept my condolences. She seemed to be a sweet little girl. May the Almighty be with the family during their time of loss, proving to be a source of comfort.
"[God] comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those in any sort of tribulation through the comfort with which we ourselves are being comforted by God." - 2 Corinthians 1:4
Rosanne Rodriguez
July 13, 2008
I have waited this long to come here to offer my words of condolence on your loss, and still nothing sounds appropriate. As a mother and grandmother I know there is a place in your hearts that feels empty.
I know that you cherish the time God allowed your lovely Maria Sue to be with you, and the joyous memories you have of her. I also know that you know she is in her Heavenly home, with her Heavenly Father, and that she was His first.
I pray for you as a family, to heal, to feel the pain less each day, and to rejoice in the knowledge that she is now with Jesus.
May His grace fill you and carry you through the difficult times.
love, and God bless,
MY ADOPTION MIRACLE
LEIGH-ANN PENDLETON
July 9, 2008
ONE OF MY FAVORITE SONGS OF STEVEN'S HAS ALWAYS BEEN "MORE THAN WORDS". MY PRAYER FOR YOU IS THAT YOU KNOW THAT ALL OF THE MILLIONS ON PRAYERS GOING UP FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY GOD KNOWS ARE MUCH MORE THAN WORDS! I WAS BLESSED 3 YEARS AGO THROUGH THE MIRICLE OF ADOPTION. MY DELANEY IS FROM GOD HIMSELF JUST AS MARIA IS WITH HIM NOW- LOVE LEIGH & DELANEY
Tiffany Keller
June 20, 2008
Hi, my name is Tiffany, and I'm from Michigan. I have signed the book once before, but I wanted to sign it again, to let you know that I'm continuing to pray for your whole family, during this difficult time. You have great faith, and God will one day reward you for that. I wanted to share some verses with you, that might add to your healing, and that might encourage you to keep your faith strong.
Psalm 9:10- Those who know Your Name will trust in You, for You, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek You.
Psalm 10:17- You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; You encourage them, and You listen to their cry.
Will, you must know that God is with you every step of the way! He is holding you in His arms, and He loves You! He knows you're hurting badly, but know that God is there for you, and always will be! He hears and sees your pain. Give it to Him, and He will heal you!
To the whole Chapman family, remember that you have people all over the world praying for you, and that wherever two or more people gather together in prayer, God is there! Remember that God loves you, and keep your faith! I will continue to pray for you, long after this guest book for Maria is no longer online! I wish I could have known Maria! For she looked like a ray of sunshine in your videos Steven! I'm sure she was your ray of sunshine, and your Cinderella. May God continue to heal your family of this hurt, and may God Bless you always!
Myssie Jolley
June 19, 2008
She will be missed. My prayers are with you.
Jason O'Neal
June 19, 2008
I am praying 4 yall daily mr and mrs chapman maria sue chunxi was a sweet beautiful child
Sherrie, Ken, Maria & Kenny Magnes
June 17, 2008
The Chapman Family,
Me and my little girl Maria were listening to KLove on our way to her school. We heard them announce the tragedy of your little Maria. Me and my little girl Maria started crying and I asked my Maria to pray with me on our way to take her to school. I couldn't even finish my prayers because all I could think about the pain you and your family were feeling in the loss of your little angel, Maria. Me and my family experienced 2 losses in 2006. I lost my mom and she was only 62 and my husband lost his father and he was 72. Our children have experienced 2 great losses unexpectedly too but the Lord has brought us through and even after 20 months of losing my mom, I find myself crying and misses her so much but now my mommy has a little Maria up in Heaven with her. Words can't even express the thoughts and prayers that we have for your family. Always remember all the times Maria made you smile and the sweet things she had to say. They will remain in your hearts forever. Always remember she is in a better place, dancing with Jesus and watching over all of us with Jesus by her side.
Bill Edwards
June 16, 2008
I too lost my daughter on May 21. I know the pain you are feeling but with God's help we'll make it through. I miss my angel. She touched many lives and still is.
Kathleen Bunstine
June 16, 2008
I am so sorry for the loss of your precious daughter, Maria. I experienced the pain of losing an infant son 12 years ago and know all too well the agony of a broken heart. Your world seems to stop, while the rest of the world goes on.
Please know that your sweet daughter, Maria, will live forever in the hearts of many and is cradled in the arms of our Heavenly Father at this moment. He will give you the strength you need to go on........one day at a time. Let Him carry you through your grief. And may He wrap His loving arms around your son ~ to comfort and sustain him in the days ahead. Your entire family will be remembered in our daily prayers. Keep the faith and take things one day ~ one moment ~ at a time.
Carol Winn
June 11, 2008
To lose your baby girl...no words can take away the pain. I have wept for you since first hearing, and sat in my hairdresser's chair yesterday, reading again, this time in People magazine, the article, and I just cried and cried. Maria is dancing with the Lord, but we are all so sad.
Cindy Westendorf
June 8, 2008
Chapman Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. We too lost our sweet little 3 year old granddaughter almost 15 months ago under similar circumstanes. I feel your pain and know it's not just the loss of your darling daughter but the pain your son is going through. Constantly surround him with your love. I will pray for your family.
Danny, Robin, Lauren, Kelsey and Kaylen Fagala
June 7, 2008
We cannot begin to know what your family is going through, but please know that we are praying for all of you. Thank you for sharing your family with us, being yourselves and letting God use you...no matter what, He has! In Him,
Christy Holland
June 6, 2008
Dear Chapman Family,
I was so sorry when I heard about the loss of Maria. I cannot imagine the pain and grief that you are going through. I think of your family often and will be praying for your son too. I know that the coming months will be very difficult and that is when you will need the prayer the most.
I have been a fan of Steven's music for years. I am blessed by the ministry. It is hard to understand why God would allow this to happen to your family. I think of the words to his song "With Hope" and the verse I Thess. 4:13 comes to mind. This verse helped me deal with my grandparents' death (who passed away within three months of one another). Thankfully, we can "grieve with hope" and one day you will see her again in heaven.
Brenda Eaves
June 6, 2008
Your family has been an inspiration to ours. We brought our adopted children to your 2005 Christmas concert in ATL, GA, sick wife and all and you still came to perform and you influanced change in lives that night. You made my niece Riley feel so proud that she was adopted and her self esteem went through the roof that night. With your encouragement I adopted a little boy, now 3 after the tragic loss of my own daughter at the age of 7 mo. old. Through Christ we love you all and share in your suffering, but know that through his love your family will be healed and only made stronger then before. There are never the right words at times like these, but you are blessed and never alone! Let his song continue to grow in your lives. God's peace, mercy and grace be with you all!
Angela Stukey
June 5, 2008
May God carry you through this time of loss with peace and may He bring understanding and comfort in the days and months ahead. Our hearts go out to you and we will continue to lift you up in prayer.
cyndy brannon
June 4, 2008
My family and i are very sorry for your family loss.one of your songs is my wedding song and i have listen to repeatedly over the last few days and know how precious your love for your family is. may GOD continue to be with you and yours
Hannah Isaacson
June 3, 2008
I am so very sorry for your loss. I know how much Maria meant to you. Losing a child is very painful. God will help you through this hard time,though. I know he will, he always does. Remember, you will see Maria again! =)
Victoria pHILLIPPE
June 3, 2008
Dear Chapman Family-Our family would like to express our sympathy to you in your time of sadness-we are so so sorry-she looks like such an angel-and I am sure to you she was one! How wonderful-that Jesus let each of you know her--she has got to be the most loved 5 year old-and to know that Jesus let you all be her family-what an amazing story she had to tell-she was blessed to call you her family-your songs touch each of us-and we love you-all even though have never met-just know-you are always in our prayers-in Christ--Victoria and Randy Phillippe-Brett-Brad and Tim.
Leigh Stevens
June 2, 2008
We are praying for healing and peace during this difficult time. Your whole family is loved and lifted up in prayer! Maria brother, we are praying for understanding and God's peace. love, and hope to carry you through. We support you and want you to know that God knows you will do mighty things for His kingdom through this tragedy and show the world what it is like to rest in the arms of our Savior!
Dena Kaye-Scott
June 2, 2008
Dear Chapman family, you are still in our prayers. We think so much of you and the children. This tragedy has kept me awake and wandering into my little boy's room to kiss on him in the early morning hours. I have made journal entries to him about your love of Christ and
ministry. He loves to sing "I do believe". We love and thank God for you!
Lori and "My angel" Kelly Holder
June 2, 2008
Dear Chapman family,
My heart is broken for you. You are a very strong Christian family and as you well know, God is there in every breath you take. My husband died last year after a long battle with Leukemia. I am 32 and he was 35. I have wanted to express to you for a long time now how thankful I am for the words that you have written Steven. I wore out the "All Things New" CD while driving back and forth from Morgantown to Charleston West Virginia. My husband and I have always been big fans. His favorite song was "Be Still and Know." I hear Jesus speaking to me when I listen to "Believe Me Now."
We also have a niece from China, Amanda Wen, who is 6. Mary Beth, your courage and strength during your own trials has been an inspiration to me through my tragedy.
My family and I are praying for you daily. I love you guys very much. I just get through one day at a time. Know that Maria has my sweet angel to help care for her!
Skylar C.
May 31, 2008
I can't even begin to imagine the pain you must be going through right now. All I can do is carry you to Jesus. Ya'll are in my prayers.
In His Grip,
Liz Reeves
May 31, 2008
Mr. & Mrs. Chapman and family,
We are lifting you up in prayer as you face the days & weeks ahead. Much love,
Larry & Liz Reeves
Whitehouse, TX
alex card
May 31, 2008
i hope you can fin peace in the hard time
laura cyrus
May 31, 2008
sorry for your loss you are in our prayers God bless
Fred & Angie Hammonds
May 30, 2008
Stephen & family, We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Our church is playing "Cinderella" on Fathers Day while three fathers dance with three daughters at the three different ages. My husband is going to be dancing with our 19 yr. old daughter at the "marriage" age while she wears a friends wedding gown. It will be beautiful and I know my husband will be in tears. We pray God helps you through this sorrowful time. We love you and your music.
Martha Walter
May 30, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you begin the journey of coping with the reality that your little Maria Sue is no longer with you. It's a day-by-day process of allowing the Lord to turn your mourning into joy. Our prayers are with you Will and we know the Lord will be ever so close to you and will help you to move forward in hope. Accidents happen and this could have happened to anyone. The Lord loves you and wants to be your comforter during this difficult time. Allow the Lord to release you of any guilt and replace it with His joy.
Praying for you, Pastor Darryl & Martha Walter
Glenn and Debra Johnson
May 30, 2008
Dear Steve and Mary Beth,
My husband and I would like to express our heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your precious little daughter, Maria Sue. There are no words sufficient to offer as an expression of compassion for the loss of your little Cinderella. Please know that we will continue offer up our prayers to the Lord, asking Him to comfort your hearts as the days and weeks go on.
Please know that your entire family is loved by a host and vast number of Christian believers who care about the pain you are going through.
We can rejoice that one day we’ll see our precious loved ones who have gone before us, with our hope in Christ Jesus.
May our Lord who sustains us with all comfort and compassion hold your family in His loving arms as you bear through this difficult time.
Romans 8:38, 39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
In His Precious Love,
Dee Smith
May 30, 2008
Chapman Family:
I pray God will cover you with His precious hands in this time of sorrow.
Leslie Williams
May 30, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Jennifer Drost
May 30, 2008
Dear chapman family and friends,
I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I did not have an opportunity to meet any of you, but, my heart goes out to you. May God poor peace over you all in this hard time and richly Bless, Sincerely, Jennifer Drost
Kim Conatser-Agnew
May 30, 2008
Chapman Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet daughter. I have a daughter and everytime I think about what you must be feeling it is too overwhelming. One thing is different for us both... we have a hope that is greater than death and death is not the end! Although I am sure you wish for Maria Sue to be safe in your arms tonight, what a great comfort to know she is safe in His arms. Happy, laughing, dancing without the pain of this earth that you feel now. I am praying for you everytime I think about you, truly, even if for one minute. I know that you will receive the "oil of joy for mourning". I am praying this for you and your children.
You are Loved!
Pam Polston
May 29, 2008
What a lovely girl. She is in Gods hands now. We are praying for your family and especially your son. Blessings to all of you
Marsha Osburn
May 29, 2008
Dear Chapman Family,
I know it has been just over a week and your pain is still very hard. I pray for your family each and every day. May your love for Maria help you in your time of grief to remember the good times that you had.
Sincerely,
Marsha Osburn
Roachdale, IN
J. Miller
May 29, 2008
Dear Steven, Mary Beth and family,
Your whole family has been in my thoughts and prayers since I heard about your beautiful daughter Maria. I have especially been praying for your son. We simply cannot fathom why God has allowed this to happen to your family. My prayer is that your family continue to turn to our Lord and Savior and allow Him to carry you in the palm of His hand through this storm. May you take comfort that God is in control and does not put anything in our paths that we are not able to handle. I pray that He and others will minister to you, just as your music has ministered to me countless times.
Janet Ralston
May 29, 2008
Dear Chapman Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are sorry for your loss. Words cannot express our heartfelt compassion for all of your family!
Lori Hellmund
May 29, 2008
Dear Chapman Family,
After the loss of my father, I listened to Steven's song "Wait on the Lord" over and over again; reminding myself that "I would understand in time". I know that someday we will understand, but until that time, I pray that the Lord will carry you in His hands until you are reunited in Heaven with Maria.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bryan Neumann
May 29, 2008
Chapman's
I have been a fan of Steven for years and when I heard about Maria My Heart Sank because I know how you feel My Brother Eric who would have been 13 this year died 7 years ago.
May you be comforted by the Wind Of The Holy Spirit and I know that I will see my brother Eric again When Christ Returns and you will see Maria again.
My Prayers are with you and your family.
Kim Holder
May 29, 2008
Champman Family,
You are in my prayers everyday. I am so very sorry for your loss. Our Ladies Bible Class prayed for your family last night. We will continue to pray for your family in the days ahead. The Holder Family - Allen, Kim, Samuel & Amanda Wen (Adopted from China 2002)
Kim Gibbons
May 29, 2008
Dear Chapmans, my heart has been so sad and heavy since I learned of the death of your little Maria. I am so sorry for your loss. I am a single mom with a precious daughter from China. She is the light of my life and I can barely imagine how it would feel to lose her. I pray that you find strength and healing in the days to come.
Angie Futch
May 29, 2008
I have been amazed at the range of emotions I have gone through after hearing of little Maria's death. I didn't even know you had adopted her; I only knew about Shoaey and Stevey Joy. But, when I watched the dishwashing video, I could see the sparkle in her eye and that beautiful smile. She must have been such a joy. Hold that joy in your heart each day as you savor the memories you made in the years that you had her here on earth. What a blessing your Cinderella song has been to me, as we have our own little 5-year-old princess. May God use your own songs to comfort you during this time of loss and grief. God bless each one of you, especially your son.
yearbook picture
Danielle Haralson
May 28, 2008
i will be praying for your family,especially you will,this was not your fault.mary sue is in a better place now.i love you guys.thanks for your ministry.
God Bless
Danielle
Marla Belasquez
May 28, 2008
~Maria ~ May you rest in peace with God. Your smile will remain in our hearts forever. We will pray for your family....... You are our *Cinderella*forever!!!May 21,2008
Tim St.Cin
May 28, 2008
Dear Steve,
My condolences on the loss of your daughter. I have two daughters, ages 9 and 7 and I cannot imagine the pain you and your family are going through. And just as important is the pain that your son is dealing with, understanding that he may be asking himself what he could have done differently. God is able to turn this into something positive for all of you and my prayer is that this settling comes quickly.
Prayerfully,
Tim St.Cin
Susanne
May 28, 2008
God Bless You Chapman Family,
In your time of grief and always...
L. JOnes
May 28, 2008
I know that GOd will help you though this dark time. Let all you memories of her be cherished.
Autry Family
May 28, 2008
Our deepest sympathy at this time of loss. May God comfort as only He can. (II Cor. 12:9) Our prayers are with you.
Ann Radford & Family
May 28, 2008
Chapman Family,
May time and cherished memories help to gently ease the loss you bare and may it bring you special comfort to know that others care.
Dorothy Suchecki
May 28, 2008
Dear Phyllis, Jim & family,
My heart goes out to you in this double tragedy. I've been praying for all of you since I heard it on WEEC. I am so thankful that all of you know and love our Lord. He will bring you through this time of deep grief and sorrow.
Roxanne Balau
May 28, 2008
Dear Family Chapman,
May God be with you in these tragic moments! And may the Angels hold little Maria in their wings. I also pray that her brother by strengthened by the Holy Spirit, along with the entire family!
May 28, 2008
my heart bleeds from what has happened to your family. My condolences to everyone involved. I didn't know who the Chapman's were till now,and I can't get enough of hearing his beautiful voice (song)reaching out to his daughter at this time. God bless.
Patricia ONeal
May 27, 2008
May God hold each of you close as you grieve and try to find ways to cope. Trust the heart of God even in this situation. Each of you are being lifted via prayer to the one true God. May He comfort you in ways that only He is able to comfort.
"When you don't understand the purpose of His plan,
In the presence of the King, Bow the knee."
Joe and Wanda Roberts
May 27, 2008
"Going Home for Christmas", is such a comfort. Thank you.
Although it is not Christmas, Heaven's choir just became sweeter.
May your precious family feel comforted by Jesus.
May the awesome peace and love of Heaven descend upon you all.
A precious little girl went home to her Master.
In the singing of the birds you'll hear her laughter.
May:
Jesus, cuddle her in the arms of Heaven.
Jesus, cuddle her in His arms of Love.
Jesus, cuddle her in the heart of Heaven.
Give her wings to soar with The Dove.
Hold this family close to Your mercy.
Hold them tighter than ever before.
Bring them joy in the memory of this angel.
And may they be surrounded by the love of Your family.
AMEN
God be with you,
Elizabeth Paradise
May 27, 2008
My heart broke for you all on Sunday during prayer requests when a church member told us the story. I can not even imagine the pain you must be feeling. I have grown up listening to your music and actually attended my first concert of yours in October 07. I am the mother of a one year old, and your song "Cinderella" had me in tears at the concert, and now everytime I play that song, I will pray for you and your family. If only we knew why God allows these things to happen. But we will when he comes and calls us home.
Remember the song that has touched my life, when things I thought were unbearable happened, your song, and your words brought me back to the fact that God is the only one who is in control and who will be there time and again. Who will "never leave us or forsake us"
If you listen to your own songs, listen to His Strength Is Perfect and grasp onto His strength and NEVER let it go!
My prayers will be with you and your family. Cling to God and his AMAZING love during this time. Never stray from it, because without him, we are nothing.
God Be With You All
Colette & Paul Pritts
May 27, 2008
Dear Chapmans,
We are praying for your family during this very difficult time. May all of you feel God's peace and strength.
Nadine M. Downey
May 27, 2008
Dear Phyllis, Jim and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. You're in my heart and in my prayers.
stephen m. boyd
May 27, 2008
my thoughts and prayers are with the chapman family during the loss of your daughter maria. may god bless and comfort the family during this very difficult time
Rose Ishee
May 27, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Having lost a child myself, I know your pain though through his death I also learned of the hope you have. I know that God will continue to grow you and your family through your faith. My hope and prayers are also with your son as I know that God will also bring great things to him through all this sadness and pain. Because He Is.
Donnie Witke
May 27, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Mary Byrd
May 27, 2008
May you have comfort knowing God is with you all at this very sad and difficult time.
nancy schmid
May 27, 2008
I love your music and your precious daughter. I lost my 16 yr old son Marty in a drownding accident almost 20 yrs ago. I did not know how I was going to live another day with that pain. I asked God to please take the pain and leave only the love so I could go on living. I had 2 other younger sons, but the pain didn't let me see them at first. I knew from the beginning that my son was in God's hands and was okay. I even tried telling the doctors that he was okay and they kept telling me No that he died. I worried how our family was going to be okay. You are not okay, but you need to find new ways to be a family and always show ways to love the deceased one. Take care and if you want to talk more email me at [email protected]
Lora Bentley
May 27, 2008
Dear Chapmans,
I cannot imagine the pain of your loss, but please know that we love you and are lifting you up as you hold on to Jesus.
Jane Hinkle
May 27, 2008
The first thing that crossed my mind when I heard the tragic news was your song "Be Still and Know". I hope you can gain some peace in the words that you have written so others can find comfort in God's love. Your son needs special care too. I pray God will ease his burden. I am from Ft.Smith, Ark. and was fortunate enough to attend the Dove Awards this year.
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