Donald Ray Chapman, 93, of Gassaway, WV, went home to be with the Lord on January 15, 2022 at WV Caring, Elkins, WV, with his loving, devoted wife of 67 years, Bessie, at his side.  Due to Covid-19 protocols, his daughter, Sheila, was not permitted to stay with him.

Donald was born on November 18, 1928.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil Ray and Elva Gay Chapman; brothers, Calvin Chapman, Robert “Jack” Chapman, Eugene “Gene” Chapman, and sister, Elsie Greene.

He is survived by his wife, Bessie, Gassaway; daughter, Sheila (Bill) Powers, Gassaway; granddaughters, Dawn Rae (David) Smith, Athens, WV and Allison (Doug) Beall, Normantown, WV; great-grandchildren, Kennedy Smith, Athens; Brody, Joel, Brooklyn, and Baby Beall on the way, all of Normantown; and several nieces and nephews.  Also surviving is a sister, Anna Blair Reed, Clarksburg; and brother-in-law, Ronald “Don” Sears, Florida.

Donald was a self-employed painter for several years until he started working for Columbia Gas until he retired.  He was a proud Air Force veteran.  One of his assignments as an MP was a personal chauffeur for a general in Italy.  At one time, Donald was a member of Engel Chapel, Gassaway.

Donald was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.  He loved his family and was always excited when he knew the grandchildren and great-grandchildren were coming to visit.  Donald was a big fan of WVU basketball and football.  He looked forward to watching the games until macular degeneration took his eye sight.  After that, he continued to enjoy WVU games with the assistance of his son-in-law, Bill, telling him what was happening in the course of the games.  Family Feud was another TV show he enjoyed.  Donald was especially fond of his Pomeranian, King.  He was a great guitarist (Chet Adkins style) and enjoyed playing with friends until he could not play any longer.  His favorite song to play was the hymn, “In the Garden”.

Donald endured several debilitating health issues of which he never complained leaving him blind, with very limited ability to walk, talk, or hear.   Now he can do them all and we are so thankful for that.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at the VA hospital, Clarksburg, WV; the Braxton County Senior Center; WV Caring, Elkins, and the nurses who came to the house for care Donald received.  Thanks for all who gave prayers, sent cards, called, and brought food.  May god bless you all.

A private graveside service with military rites will be held at the Sugar Creek Cemetery, near Gassaway, with Pastor Joe Bob Truman officiating.  The family would like to thank Pastor Joe Bob Truman for presiding over the graveside service and to Roach Funeral Home, Gassaway, WV, for handling the arrangements.

Words of comfort and fond memories may be extended to the family at www.roachfuneralhome.com.