Constance "Connie" Chapman

Constance (Connie) Chapman was born to Oneal Stephens and Janie Fowler on July 4, 1930; “Independence Day” in Saint Matthews, South Carolina. Connie’s husband, T.C. Chapman, sent for her from South Carolina, arriving in New London with one suitcase, where they resided at 1 Hartford Court in Groton for many years.

Connie was very involved in the NAACP. They gave her the knowledge and guided her to finish her education, enabling her to receive her high school diploma. Connie accomplished all this while raising her children and making sure there was always a hot, home cooked meal on the stove.

Connie was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend. She was always there to offer guidance and a helping hand to those in need. She touched many lives through her cooking, her laugh, and her heart. The legacy she leaves behind is one of beauty; one that her children will pass onto their grandchildren and great-grandchildren; One that will continue to live by her precious memory.

She worked at Claude Chester Elementary School in Groton and at Pleasant Valley as a cook for 30 years. She was loved for her good food and by both her students and co-workers. Connie was an active member of Walls Temple Zion Baptist Church in New London for many years. She ws very involved through her biblical studies and being a member of the choir. She was an usher and cooked for the church. She also participated in activities, fundraisers, and kid’s programs for several other churches.

Connie left us on October 25, 2022 and was preceded in death by her husband T.C.Chapman, her daughter Cynthia K. Chapman, and her grandson Joshua Chapman. She leaves behind her beautiful children: Thomas Chapman, Annette Rumph, Violet Beckwith, Vivian Champlin, Dianne Chapman, Wallace Chapman, and Carol Gordon. She leaves 14 beautiful grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

She will be truly missed, the legacy you left is beautiful, thank you “my beautiful lady. Mom, grandma, and as many know her” Sister Chapman.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 7th at 11 a.m. at Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington Street, New London. Burial will follow in Cedar Grove Cemetery.