It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mrs. Doris Chapman, who departed this life on July 22, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on February 7, 1941, Doris was cherished by her loving family and many friends, leaving behind a tapestry of memories, devotion, and kindness that will long be remembered.

A graveside service to honor the life of Mrs. Doris Chapman will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Hayes Family Cemetery, 1055 Fennel Town Road, Rocky Point, NC.

Doris’s journey began in the public schools of Burgaw, NC, and Wilmington, DE, where she cultivated both an appreciation for learning and deep, lasting friendships. She was a proud graduate of Howard High School, a milestone that set the foundation for her lifelong commitment to growth and community.

Her professional career was spent serving the State of Maryland at the Department of Motor Vehicles, where she was known for her work ethic and unwavering commitment to helping others. Doris greeted each day with a sense of purpose, often going the extra mile for those she served and worked alongside.

Outside of her career, Doris found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was an avid player of Pincole, solitaire, and word search games, always eager for the next friendly competition or quiet moment of reflection. Her adventurous spirit took her traveling to favorite places near and far, enriching her life with new experiences and memories shared with loved ones. Doris also had a natural green thumb, spending hours tending to her garden, finding solace and pride in nurturing beauty from the earth.

Doris’s daily routines reflected her zest for life, walking 10,000 steps a day and participating in water aerobics kept her active and energetic well into her later years. These habits were emblematic of her determination and joy for living each day to its fullest.

But perhaps one of Doris’s proudest joys was caring for her beloved furr babies, Mr. Bojangles and Miss Daisey. She spoiled them endlessly, showering them with love and attention, just as she did for the people in her life.

Left to cherish her memory are those she held closest in her heart: her devoted daughter, Vannessa Chapman; her cherished granddaughter, Adrienne Elezaj; her precious great-grandson, Grey Elezaj; Curtis Howard and Nicholas Elezaj; and her loving brothers, Andre Brown and Vernell Brown.

Doris’s reunion in peace includes her beloved husband, Thomas L Chapman; her dear parents, Navassa Brown and Quessie Wingard; her brothers, William H Brown, Thurman L Brown, James Preston Brown Jr.; and her sister, Barbara Ann Sudler, all of whom have preceded her in rest.

Doris Chapman’s life was one marked by steadfast love, quiet strength, and a warmth that drew people close. Her legacy of kindness, her commitment to her family, and her pursuit of the joys both great and small will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. The memory of her laughter, her gentle spirit, and her unwavering care will live on through those who love her dearly.