James R. Chapman

James Richard Chapman, 90, of Springfield, Ohio, peacefully entered the presence of Jesus on May 27th, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Born on August 24, 1935 to James Franklin and Mary Elizabeth Chapman, Jim lived a life marked by steadfast faith, deep love for his family, and joyful devotion to the community he cherished.

At just five days old, his mother carried him into Hillside Avenue Church of God (now called Restoration Hillside), where he remained a faithful member for the rest of his life. His faith in Christ was the foundation of who he was — steady, humble, joyful, and deeply devoted to his family and church community.

Jim met Phyllis Ann Weese on a blind date in the Fall of 1954 and they were married on January 21, 1955. Marrying the love of his life, they began building a beautiful life and family that spanned more than 71 years. Together they built a home filled with laughter, music, faith, hard work, and unwavering love.

Jim worked for 30 years at International Harvester, where he treasured the friendships he built with the men he worked alongside. After retiring he worked another 20 years for Security National Bank where he helped with just about everything that needed done. He was known for his strong work ethic, kind spirit, and ability to make people laugh wherever he went. He was gifted with his hands and seemed able to build or fix just about anything.

He found joy in life’s simple treasures — gardening, Nascar, collecting marbles and iron car banks, singing gospel music, and cheering on his children and grandchildren. One of his greatest joys was singing with the Gospel Rainbows alongside his son Jim and daughter Jeanne. He was a natural kidder, a practical joker, a loyal friend, and someone who could brighten a room with his humor and warmth.

Above all else, Jim was most proud of his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Phyllis Chapman; his children, James Chapman (Yolanda), Jeanne Morris, and Mary Beth Chapman (Steven); and his cherished grandchildren: Jordan Chapman (Natalie), Canaan Chapman (Ami), Bethany Bouchard (Adam), Abby Chapman, Isabelle Chapman, Lydia Chapman, Jayne Chapman, Fahlin Chapman, Daniel Morris (Melissa), Emily Richards (Tanner), Caleb Chapman (Julia), Will Chapman (Jillian), Shaohannah Chapman, and Stevey Joy Chapman.

He is also survived by 14 treasured great-grandchildren; his sisters, Marianne Plank and Sue French; and many nieces, nephews, church family members, and dear friends whose lives were touched by his kindness and faithful example.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Franklin and Mary Elizabeth Chapman; his sister, Virginia Lee Haddix; his son-in-law, Barry Keith Morris; and his beloved granddaughter, Maria Sue Chapman.

Jim’s family rejoices knowing that the faith he lived so faithfully has now become sight.

The family wishes to express sincere gratitude to the many caregivers and medical professionals who cared for our beloved father with such compassion and dignity. We are deeply thankful for the devoted teams at Brookdale Buck Creek Senior Living, Home Instead, Affinity Hospice, and the 4 North Nursing Staff at Springfield Regional Medical Center. Special appreciation is extended to Dr. Tom Erikson and his wonderful staff for their exceptional care, guidance, and kindness throughout this journey. Your support and compassion brought comfort not only to our father, but to our entire family.

The family will visit with friends, Monday, June 1st at 10:30am with a Celebration of Life starting at 11:00am, Restoration Hillside Church, 2021 Hillside Ave. Springfield Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Show Hope, P.O. Box 681748, Franklin, TN 37068. Jim loved that 7 of his grandchildren and 1 of his great grandchildren were brought home through the miracle of adoption. Show Hope exists to care for orphans by engaging the Church and reducing barriers to adoption, helping vulnerable children around the world experience the love and permanence of family.