William Eric Chapman

COLUMBIA - William Eric Chapman, a passionate pilot and beloved son, brother & in-law, uncle, and friend, has taken his last flight into the great beyond. Born on May 6, 1973, he lived a full life in his short 52 years.

After graduating from high school, he entered the U.S. Navy and achieved highest ratings as an airplane mechanic. He earned his Bachelor of Aviation Science degree at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida and had an eventful career as a corporate airline pilot. He achieved many of his dreams, including living in New York City, performing in SoHo as the lead singer of a Motörhead cover band, flying a Gulfstream business jet all over the US, Europe, and parts of Asia. He even participated in a happy birthday dance with Maasai warriors in Tanzania. Eric made many friends and helped and encouraged everyone he knew.

A funeral service for William Eric Chapman will be held at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, with burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 pm prior to the service at the funeral home.

Eric passed away on Sunday, July 20, 2025. Born in Lexington, SC, he was the son of Sally King and the late Robert Eric Chapman. Surviving are his mother, Sally King and her husband, James Buggy; sister, Laura Chapman Rogers and her husband, Jamey; their children; and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends, especially his former wife, Gena Barton, her husband, Scott, and their four children.

The family wishes to thank all of the wonderful staff of CM Tucker Nursing Center, Stone Pavilion, for their expert care and comfort provided to Eric as he fought the devastating effects of early onset Alzheimer’s Disease. We will be forever grateful for your loving care.

Memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Association, Sandhills School, 1500 Hallbrook Drive, Columbia, SC 29209, or a charity of one’s choice.

Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.