James A. Jimmy"

Chapman, Sr.

James Albert Chapman, Sr., 85, passed away September 21, 2026. He was born on March 13, 1941, in Gloucester, Virginia to Claude Marchant and Lucille Pitts Chapman.

He was a graduate of Gloucester High School class of 1961. Jimmy served in the US Navy Reserves during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He spent many years working as a General Forman Pipefitter in the Maintenance Department in the Newport News Shipyard. Outside of work, he enjoyed working in his vegetable garden and sharing with neighbors and friends. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved animals. He always had a dog by his side. From King to Blue to Nick to Beau. He is remembered for his many years of playing Santa Claus, and for the joy he gave to children when he put that red suit on. He loved to be surrounded by his family. He was so proud of his four children and seven grandchildren.

He was preceded  by his parents, brothers, Homer, Sam, Jack and Harry and sister Lottie, son-in-law, Michael Craig and his “sidekick” Martin Robins.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Barbara, his children Victoria Kirtley (Tee), Kristina Craig, James Chapman II (Hannah). And Benjamin Chapman (Christy). His grandchildren Reid, Hayden and Tucker Kirtley, Scout and Elijah Craig and James III and Matthew Chapman and a special niece, Karen Jackson.

Special thanks to Jurlin for taking such good care of him.

Memorial to Gloucester Fire and Rescue and Singleton United Methodist Church.

Visitation will be held on September 28th at Andrews Funeral Home from 6-7:30 pm. The funeral service will be at Singleton Methodist Church in Ware Neck September 29th at 11:00 am. A graveside service will proceed at Beulah Baptist Church Cemetery.