James Arthur Chapman, Jr.

James A. Chapman, Jr. was born on November 28, 1959 in Fort Wayne, IN to the late James A. Chapman, Sr. and Eualeen Chapman. He departed this earthly life on September 25, 2025.

James graduated from Wayne High School in 1977. He proudly served in the United States Army for two years, receiving an honorable discharge. Following his military service, he was employed by the City of Fort Wayne, where he dedicated 31 years of service before retiring in October 2015. He also spent many memorable years working alongside his Uncle Link at Link’s Wonderland, “the place to be, back in the day.”

James enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. In his younger years, James had a passion for boxing and proudly earned the title of Golden Gloves Champion. James also liked to think of himself as a bit of a chef — dubbing himself “Chef Chilli Ardee.” He was known for whipping up some pretty... let’s just say unique meals that he proudly called “exquisite,” though I (Virginia) preferred to call them “experimental.” I (Virginia) always made sure to have extra napkins on hand — just in case. His cooking was definitely an acquired taste, but James savored every bite like it was a five-star meal.

James also loved spending time with his cousins, listening to music, playing pool, and being a jokester.  He was also an avid Indianapolis Colts fan.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Virginia Chapman; his mother, Eualeen Chapman; his son, Justin Alexander; stepdaughters, Teya Graham and Johnique (Jae) Smith; brothers, Tony (Diane) Chapman and Pastor Tiberius A. (Joslyn) Smith Sr.; sisters, Denese Johnson, Alma Mieshun Coleman, and Debra Williams; grandchildren, Tristan Portee, True and Trinity Henry; and step-grandchildren, Taron and Jiya Graham, and Khilyn Tyms.

He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Nathaniel Brown, Samuel, William, Lewis, and John Graham; sisters-in-law, Liz Sheffield and Laura Graham; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

James was preceded in death by his daughter, December Henry; his father, James A. Chapman Sr.; his sister, Jemarja Chapman; and his brother-in-law, Lawrence Johnson.

James will be remembered for his warm heart and love for his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter and cherished memories.

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