Dorothy Mae (Chapman) Wilson

Dorothy Mae (Chapman) Wilson was born to the late Willie James and Ann (Brooks) Chapman, in Marion, AL, on April 17, 1938. On February 6, 2022, while surrounded by her children at Parkview Regional Medical Center, God called her to her heavenly home—she was able to fulfill the word noted: “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” (2nd Timothy 4:7). God gave her His rest and peace.

Dorothy was baptized in Jesus’ name and filled with the Holy Ghost under the leadership of the late District Elder, Henry Jones, at Christ Temple Apostolic Church. She became a member of City of David Training Center, under the leadership of Bryan and Crystal Billingsley. Dorothy enjoyed the weekly services and was eager to feast on the Word of God.

Dorothy graduated from Central High School. While there, she met her late husband, Henry, who would soon be inducted into military service for the Army during the Korean War. After he was discharged, they married and were blessed to celebrate their 66th wedding anniversary just this past year, on November 4 of 2021.

Dorothy enjoyed the holidays, especially Christmastime. She loved to gather with her children and family. She also loved to cook and bake her well-known dishes, such as macaroni and cheese, and her infamous carrot cake. She also loved to have family gatherings on Sundays and holidays, such as Christmas, where she enjoyed decorating the inside and outside of her home.

Among other favorite things, Dorothy love to dress up, and was known for her sharp dressing—matching from head to toe—and at times, wearing her church hats. She loved to garden and grow flowers. She also loved to shop and enhance her surroundings with beautiful adornments.

Additionally, Dorothy loved her children and would do anything for them. She put her own life on hold many times to go and stay with her children during times of illness and need. Her children were her life. She was a very giving person, and loved to help others. She was the epitome of a mother, grandmother, and best friend.

Dorothy worked for over 21 and ½ years at the former Fort Wayne State Developmental Center. After retiring, she and Henry became foster parents for some time. Her heart’s desire was to be with family, her children, whom she loved, her grands, and her great-grands.

Dorothy is survived by her children: Mamie Charleton of Dayton, OH, Michael Wilson, Shelia (Wilson) Carswell, Bernita (Joseph) Flye, Stephanie Wilson, the twins, Darrell Wilson, Derrick (Tammy) Wilson, and D Jazmin Wilson; her 18 grandchildren, three of whom she raised as her own children: Lakeisha Davis, Christopher Wilson, and Javante Wilson; 38 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson (coming soon); sister, Lucille (Eugene) Matthews, brother, Henry Chapman, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her late husband, Henry Wilson; and her parents, Willie James and Ann Chapman.

Private services will be held.

Memorial donations in her honor may be directed to the American Heart Association. Arrangements by D.O. McComb and Sons Maplewood Park Funeral Home, Fort Wayne, IN. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for Dorothy's family may be shared at www.McCombandSons.com