Jessie Byers Chapman

Jessie Chapman passed from this earthly life on Tuesday, October 8, 2013, at the age of 58. She was a special and unique lady who lived her life with elegance and an ability to win the hearts of those around her. No one could resist her smile and sparkling blue eyes. To know her was to love her.  Jessie was born in Los Angeles, California and moved with her family to Decatur, Alabama, as a teenager. She graduated from Decatur High School in 1973 and attended Athens State College. She lived most of her adult life in the Washington, D.C., area where she enjoyed the theater and ballet, and led an active social life. She moved to Birmingham, Alabama, in 2001 to be closer to her family. In 2007 she married Dr. James Chapman and moved to Macon, Georgia where she spent the remainder of her life enjoying her new home and gardens.  Jessie was a talented decorator, gourmet cook, and avid gardener. But her greatest talent was her ability to make friends wherever she went. It did not matter to Jessie about a person's race, education, or socioeconomic background. The only thing that mattered to her was a person's heart.  Jessie was a beloved and cherished sister, aunt, wife, and friend. She will be sorely missed but she will always hold a special place in the hearts of those love her.  She is survived by her sister Johnnie Sfakianos and brother-in-law Nick Sfakianos, her brother Mike Byers and sister-in-law Patty Byers, her husband Dr. James Chapman, her niece Rebekah Mayfield and husband David, her nephew Preston Byers and wife Alysia, as well many dear and precious friends.