Raymond Chapman was born on August 11, 1944, in Kellyton, Alabama to the late Rubin Marlin and Essie Lee Ware Chapman. Raymond was the sixth of eight children born to this union.

On Saturday, November 15, 2025, he transitioned from this level of existence to his heavenly resting place.

Raymond accepted Christ at an early age and joined Corinth Baptist Church in Kellyton, Alabama. Even with dementia, Raymond called on Jesus often.

Raymond graduated from J.D. Thompson High School in 1962. After graduation, he moved to Cleveland, Ohio to seek employment. He worked for Sears and Roebuck as an auto mechanic for over 40 years. He was so conscientious at his job that after his retirement, his former boss called and asked him to return to work due to the overwhelming requests received from former customers. He was very dedicated to his job and returned for a short stint. His family and friends would also call on him for auto advice and repairs.

In Cleveland, Raymond not only found his career path, but he also met the love of his life Jeannette Elizabeth Jefferies. After dating for a brief time, Raymond and Jeannette married on August 17, 1971. From this union, Jeffery and Mark Chapman were born. Raymond has another son, Calvin Clements from a previous relationship. He adored his family. He took his responsibility of leading and loving his family seriously. He was responsible, present, supportive, patient, and a provider. He was the voice of reason and to know Raymond was to love Raymond.

Raymond took pride in keeping a beautiful yard. He had a green thumb and made sure his grass was greener than his neighbors. Strangers driving by would stop and comment on how immaculate he kept his yard. Even in the winter, he would get up at 3:00AM to clear snow from his driveway. He loved western movies, soap operas, and he was an avid Cleveland sports fan. He loved it when family got together for dinner or holiday gatherings, and he especially loved spending time with his youngest, and adorable granddaughter, Yasmeen. Their bond gave him profound joy.

We will miss Raymond, yet we know that this earth is not our permanent home. It is with abiding faith, that we, like Raymond, accept God’s will.

He was preceded in death by five of his siblings; Ruby L. Chapman-Hughley (Roscoe), Mamie Chapman-Robinson, Betty Jean Chapman-Porch; and brothers, Ocie, and Julius Chapman.

Raymond leaves to cherish his precious memory; a loving wife, Jeannette Elizabeth Chapman; Sons, Jeffery L. Chapman (Donyale), Mark Chapman (Dionna), Calvin Clements; Grandchildren, Yasmeen Chapman, Kennedy Copeland, Aniya Williams, Amier Patterson, Carter Clements; Sister, Martha Chapman (California); Brother, Dwight Chapman (California); Nephews, Jimmie Harrell (Maryland), Bernard Ellington (Melissa, Alabama), Ocie Chapman (Georgia), Michael, and Turyfree (California); Nieces, Stacia Hughley (District of Columbia), Charlene Chapman (California), Chelois Chapman, (California), Tameka (California); Sisters-in-laws, Phennie Lois Glasper-Chapman (Alabama), Tempe Jefferies-Bennett (Virginia), Pamela Perry-Jefferies (West Virginia), Beverly Gray-Jefferies (North Carolina); Brothers-in-laws, William Jefferies (North Carolina), Cloyd Jefferies (West Virginia); Godson Derrick Burton (Lisa, Florida); Loving friends, Eunice Burton-Rollins (James, Alabama), Vernita Sheetes (Mark, Cleveland), Lee Cross (Cleveland); and a host of friends and relatives.