Roy Don Chapman

Don Chapman was born in Clifton, Texas, to Bennie Roy Chapman and Mary  Marsalette Chapman. He spent his early years in Dallas, Texas, before moving with his family to Houston during his junior year of high school, where he met his future wife.

Don graduated from John H. Reagan High School in 1963. After high school, he attended Texas A&M University and Lamar University, earning a bachelor’s degree in engineering. In 1965, he married his high school sweetheart, Jane MacKenzie.

Following college, Don and Jane moved to the Golden Triangle area, where he began a long and dedicated career as an engineer at Texaco refinery, working there for over 30 years. He became affectionately known as “Mr. Memorial Day.”

Don had a deep love for the water. He enjoyed water skiing and took great pride in teaching many others how to ski. He also loved building things, but above all, he cherished his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather.

He was a devoted member of Memorial Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and property manager.

Don was preceded in death by his father, Bennie Chapman; his mother, Mary Chapman; and his sister, Priscilla Mitchell.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jane Chapman of Port Arthur; his son, Christopher Chapman of Nederland (Jennifer); his daughter, Kathryn Chapman (Sonia) of Kingwood; and his grandson, Connor Chapman of Nederland.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Port Arthur City Church, formally known as Memorial Baptist Church.