Arline Hayes Chapman

Arline Hayes Chapman

1938 - 2026

Arline Chapman was born in 1938 in the vibrant city of Shanghai, China, to her beloved parents, Robert and Ruth Hayes. From her earliest days, she was shaped by the richness of the world around her - a quality that would define her remarkable life of service, leadership, and devotion to her family and community.

Arline built an extraordinary and varied career that spanned both the skies and the halls of government. She soared as a flight attendant with Eastern Airlines, bringing grace and warmth to thousands of travelers. Her dedication to public service then led her to the Georgia House of Representatives, where she served as an administrative assistant, and later to the Office of the Attorney General Thurbert Baker, where she distinguished herself as an executive assistant. In each role, she brought professionalism, integrity, and a tireless work ethic.

Perhaps her greatest professional legacy was forged in civic leadership. Arline served four dedicated years on the Porterdale City Council before ascending to the office of Mayor, a position she held with distinction for twelve years. Her tenure was a testament to her deep love for her community and her unwavering commitment to making it a better place for all who called it home. She led not with authority alone, but with compassion, wisdom, and an open door for every constituent.

A central chapter of Arline's life was her marriage to Bob, a bond that brought her great love and happiness. Though their paths evolved over the years, their connection endured as a cherished and lasting friendship - a testament to the grace and generosity of spirit that defined her character. Bob remained a treasured part of her life and the life of their family.

One of Arline's most treasured traditions was the annual family vacation to St. Simons Island, Georgia, - a beloved ritual that spanned more than thirty years. Year after year, the shores of St. Simons provided the backdrop for laughter, togetherness, and the making of memories that her family will carry forever. Spending time with her granddaughters by the sea was among her greatest joys, a place where time seemed to slow and family bonds grew ever stronger.

Beyond her public life, Arline was an accomplished and passionate painter. Her artistic talent was a quiet yet profound expression of her inner world, and her work earned her a proud place as a member of the Southern Heartland Art Gallery. Whether capturing a landscape or exploring color and form, she brought the same thoughtfulness and dedication to her canvases that she brought to everything she touched. Her paintings remain a beautiful and enduring legacy.

Above all else, Arline cherished her family. She is survived by her beloved sons, Greg and Brian, and their wonderful wives, Sarah and Lisa, who brought her immeasurable joy. She was a devoted and adoring grandmother to Halen, Abby, Ava, and Joseph, who were the light of her life. Her warmth, laughter, and steadfast love will be forever felt in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3:00 P.M. Saturday, March 21, 2026, in the Epiphany Lutheran Church, SE, 2375 GA-20, Conyers, GA 30013. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association at < https://donorservices.alz.org/page/FUNZRKELQMQ?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_campaign=giving_google_SL&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1707986387&gbraid=0AAAAAD8nX1rFzt3GI4cZjYkYcNkDtdGv4&gclid=CjwKCAjwjtTNBhB0EiwAuswYhqw4Z3uT_2R2cyvoq6sQzeRIRclXgr_8zfAAbM_O6BDS46cfAU5c8RoC1pMQAvD_BwE > or Abbey Hospice at < https://www.abbeyhospice.com/abbey-hospice-foundation >. Please indicate who the donation is representing.

"Living by the Holy Spirit's Power. My brothers and sisters, you were chosen to be free. But don't use your freedom as an excuse to live under the power of sin.

Instead, serve one another in love." -Galatians 5:13

Condolences may be submitted online at www.scotward.com. Scot Ward Funeral Services, 699 American Legion Road, Conyers, GA 30012, 770-483-7216.