Cathern J. (Chipps) Chapman

Cathern went home to Heaven on June 3, 2025, at the age of 95, to meet her Lord & Savior, husband John of 69 years, and family & friends who have gone on before her.  She was born in Webster County, West Virginia to Clarence and Nellie (Smith) Chipps and was the second of nine children.She met her husband and companion John E. Chapman of 69 years in 1948, and they were married on December 17, 1949.  Together they raised 4 children: Joseph, Charles, Eula and Cathy.  As a family they spent much time with extended family and taking vacations, most of which included camping and fishing.  Mom loved to serve others through her church.  She led others by her example, had a heart for missions, and especially dear to her was her lady’s group “Care & Share”.  They are still a supportive group for missions at Calvary Baptist Church.  Mom assisted her family in every aspect of home life.  Growing up she supported her school by teaching others and providing the first hot meal served to her classmates.  She graduated from high school in 1949 from Cowen High School. She worked at Camp Caesar to participate in the 4H program.  Throughout her life she exemplified a servant leader.  During Cathern’s last few months, she was blessed to have her family by her side. Cathern is survived by her loving children, Joseph (Caroline) Chapman, Charles (Debra) Chapman, Eula (Thomas) Schutte, and Cathy (Richard) Cobb.  Grandchildren; Duane, Christine, Patrick, Christopher, Julie, Stephanie, Rebecca, Arianna, Patrick, Alison, Amie, Bell-Storm, Bryan, and Renee.  30 great grandchildren, and 11 great-great grandchildren.Cathern was preceded in death by her husband, John E Chapman, her parents, siblings Lawrence Chipps, Alice (Babe) Mick, Dorthia Chipps (Carr), Clarence Richard Chipps, Anna June (Phil) Hursell, George Willard Chipps,  Roger Chipps, Michael (Fran) Chipps, and Angela Blais (granddaughter).Her homegoing celebration will be held June 10, 2025, at Calvary Baptist Church 2980 N. Wickham Rd. Melbourne, FL 32935. Pastor Michael Alford, presiding.  The viewing will begin at 11am, service at 12pm.  Immediately following will be the internment at Fountainhead Memorial Gardens in Palm Bay, FL.