Barbara Ann Chapman

Barbara was born on June 5, 1943 to Robert and Mary Haley in the crescent city of New Orleans, Louisiana. Barbara’s family moved to Rockport, Texas, where her father operated a mercantile store, before settling in Minden, Louisiana. Barbara graduated from Minden High School in 1961 where she was a majorette in high school band.

After high school graduation, Barbara initially attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana before transferring to Northwestern University, and then to the University of Arkansas. Barbara graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1965 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education.

While a student at the University of Arkansas, Barbara’s brother, George, introduced her to the love of her life, Stanley Chapman. Barbara and Stanley were married on September 1, 1963, in Minden, Louisiana. This began a lifelong journey for Barbara and Stanley that would lead to a warm and caring home to three beautiful children (Kevin, Haley, and Todd) and many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Barbara devoted her professional life to elementary education and taught in the Pulaski County School District for 25 years. In retirement, Barbara and Stanley remained very busy. For several years, they traveled the state to administer state achievement tests, and also established antique shops in various locations throughout Central Arkansas which operate to this day. Barbara and Stanley also found time to travel visiting every state in the union as well as enjoying cruises to destinations such as Alaska and Nova Scotia. Many of these travels they shared over the years with their dear friends Alice and Charlie Staggs.

Barbara was preceded in death by her brother, George Haley, and son, Todd. She is survived by; her husband Stanley Chapman, her sister Marilyn Byrd, her son Kevin Chapman (Christie), daughter Haley Chapman Ralston (Roy), grandchildren Jessica Herpin (Nate), Kristin Kellar (Tyler), Sara Nails (Jared), Jacob Chapman, Brett Chapman (Ashton), Nick Ralston, Madison Ralston, and great grandchildren Camille Herpin, Tate Herpin, Wyatt Herpin, Bowen Herpin, Silver June Nails, Olivia Kellar, and Jax Keller.

Services will be held on Friday, September 3, 2021, at Pinecrest Funeral Home, 7401, Hwy 5 North, Alexander, Arkansas 72002. Viewing will be at 10:00 AM, funeral services at 11:00 AM, followed by a graveside service.

We want to celebrate the life and legacy of Barbara Chapman, a woman of tremendous grace and humility, who touched so many lives, warmed so many hearts, and was always there for family and friends. We will miss you terribly, Barbara, until we see you again.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pinecrestfh.com for the Chapman family.