Thomas Herbert Chapman III

Thomas Herbert Chapman III, 72, passed away on August 12, 2025, in Galveston, Texas. Born on April 27, 1953, in San Antonio, Texas, Thomas lived a life shaped by the rhythms of the Gulf Coast and the pull of nature in the Hill Country.

After leaving Beaumont, Thomas moved to Galveston, where the ocean first captured his heart. That early connection to the sea never faded; it eventually drew him back the island that had once been his boyhood home. Surfing became one of his earliest passions – an expression of freedom and harmony with the water that stayed with him long after he could no longer ride the waves. His life was marked not only by his love of fishing and hunting, but also by his love for the written word. He was often found with a book in his hand and one of his many pairs of reading glasses sliding down his nose.

Thomas was known for his quiet generosity. Even when he had little himself, he gave freely to those around him – offering help to his friends however he could.

He is survived by his father, Thomas Herbert Chapman, Jr., MD (Sandra Gryder) of Richmond; siblings, Catherine Ann Chapman of Cottonwood, Arizona; Sue Ellen Chapman Ruggles (Richard Donald) of Boerne, Texas; Joseph Mixson Chapman (Roni) of Sugar Land, Texas; and Anna M. Babin of Houston. He leaves behind his daughter, Lauren Elizabeth Chapman and grandson, Michael Antonio Chapman; son, Thomas Frank Chapman (Janice Rebekah); niece, Melissa Thompson (Matthew) and their children, Emma Luna, Oren River, Storm Star, and Aubrey Elen; nephew, Joshua Andrew Ruggles (Lauren) and their son, Cash Owen; nephew, Chase Mixson Chapman (Kristin) and their son, Hayes Mixson; and Shayna Rose Johnson (Matthew) and their son, Benjamin Charles.

Thomas was preceded in death by his beloved son, Judd Aslyn Chapman; his mother, Mildred Anne Crowe Chapman Alexander; his brother, Christopher John Clark Chapman; and his brother-in-law, Simon Joseph Babin.

His legacy lives on through those who knew him best – friends who carry forward memories of shared laughter, and time spent under open skies. To his family, he is now at peace. The Chapman family extends great appreciation to Thomas' dear friends Carol Watkins and Shannon Sanders for their years of loving care and friendship.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Catholic Charities of Galveston/Houston online at https://catholiccharities.org/donate/, Childsafe online at https://www.childsafe-sa.org/ or a charity of your choice.