Buck Chapman

J.W. "Buck" Chapman left this world peacefully on December 3, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most. Born on November 23, 1948, Buck filled 77 years with the kind of purpose, humor, and heart that made everyone around him feel like family.

Buck is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Rita Davison Chapman; his daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Matt Brearton; and his grandchildren, Eli and Lila, who adored their Grandad beyond measure. He is also survived by his brother, Kay Chapman; his brother and sister-in-law, Harry and Angela Chapman; his brothers-in-law, Mayes Davison and his wife, Jean, and Rodger Davison and his wife, Shelby; and a wide circle of nieces and nephews who never doubted how much he loved them.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Brad Davison Chapman; his parents, Wilbur and Myra Chapman; his sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Steve Smith; and his sister-in-law, Liliane Chapman.

Buck grew up in Hartwell and graduated from Hart County High School. He attended Emmanuel University, where he met his adored wife, Rita, and then furthered his education at the University of Georgia-a point of lifelong pride. Later, he served his country in the United States Army with the strong dedication he brought to everything he did.

A man always ready to serve, Buck poured his energy into his community. He served as a Mason, as president of the Lake Hartwell Shrine Club, and as a supporter of the Shriners Burn Center. He participated in the Chamber of Commerce, gave his time to the Bell Family YMCA, and served joyfully at Hartwell First Methodist Church-teaching Sunday school and coaching basketball with genuine enthusiasm. For 48 years, Buck was the owner of Buckaneer Realty, earning a reputation as a trusted real estate broker and appraiser known for his fairness, integrity, and the ease with which he made friends.

Buck lived a life full of kindness, service, and steady love. He believed in laughter, in helping others, and in doing things the right way. His legacy lives on in his family and in the countless lives he touched simply by being Buck.

Mr. Buck Chapman will lie in state at the Strickland Funeral Home of Hartwell from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Friday, December 5, 2025, for anyone to come by and pay their respects.

A service to celebrate the life of Mr. Buck Chapman will be Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 11:00 am at the Hartwell First Methodist church with Dr. R. Allen Stewart officiating. Military Honors will follow the service, then a reception will follow in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bell Family YMCA, 281 Opal Street, Hartwell, GA 30643, or to Hartwell First Methodist Church, 200 E. Howell Street, Hartwell, GA 30643.

The Strickland Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Hartwell is assisting the family with all of the arrangements.

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