Eldon Wayne Chapman, 93, passed away leaving a distinguished legacy of integrity, service, and love. A former standout basketball player for Paris High School and an honors graduate of East Texas State University, Wayne’s life was anchored by his remarkable 71-year marriage to his wife, Pat. Together, they built a devoted family and raised three children, leaving behind a testament to enduring commitment and character.
Wayne dedicated 34 years to the National Guard and 35 years to the Soil Conservation Service. His meaningful career took his family from Texas to Montana, Alabama, and Washington, D.C. In retirement, he and Pat moved back to Paris, TX and traveled extensively, from Alaska to the Rio Grande Valley, where they wintered for many years and enjoyed square dancing, round dancing, and dear friendships.
What he was most proud of having done was raising funds for childhood cancer research. Following the loss of their son, David, Wayne and Pat began organizing St. Baldrick’s events in 2009. He personally raised more than $123,000, shaving for the 17th time this past November, and the events he and his friends started raised hundreds of thousands and helped to save lives.
A devout Christian and lover of the outdoors, Wayne found joy in fishing, gardening and mowing, genealogy, his nightly games and ice cream, and being with friends and family. He was loved and respected by all, had a mischievous sense of humor, and made a mountain of memories. One of the last things he said was, “It’s been a wonderful life.”
Wayne is survived by his beloved wife, Pat; daughters, Becky Weaver (Wayne), and Tammy Ratliff (Steven); cherished grandchildren, Faith Chapman (and her mom Karen Chapman), Kate Ratliff, and Thomas Ratliff; his sister, Wanda Thorpe and brother, Jimmy Chapman (Jan), and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, David Chapman, his parents Lester and Vera Chapman, brother Garland Chapman, sister Gail Farmer, and sister Ruth Thompson, as well as many dear friends.
Services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 18th at Bright-Holland Funeral Home with Rev. Mike Fortenberry officiating. Burial will follow in Manchester Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, Wayne requested that donations be made to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, continuing his mission to find cures for childhood cancer:
St. Baldrick’s Foundation
1333 South Mayflower Avenue, Suite 400
Monrovia, CA 91016
To leave a message or tribute for the family please visit www.brighthollandfuneralhome.com
