Clifton "Cliff" Richard Chapman

Clifton Richard “Cliff” Chapman, passed away at the age of 95, in Louisville, Kentucky on March 18, 2025. Born in Nobob, Kentucky, he was the last-born and last surviving child of Millard Franklin Chapman and Pearl Francis Chapman who both preceded him in death. Cliff’s unwavering dedication to his family was evident throughout his life. He is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Bernice “Bonnie” Chapman, and their children, Danny Chapman (Becky), Kathy Chapman Sharp (Terry), and Andy Chapman (Denise). Cliff’s role as a grandfather and great-grandfather was one of his greatest joys, and he dearly loved his grandchildren, Rebekah Sharp, Danny Chapman II (Christina), Geoffrey Chapman, Weslee Chapman, and Jon Chapman (Mackenzie), and his great-grandchildren, Fox Lancaster Boyce and Jon Henry Chapman.

Before his military retirement in 1998, Cliff served his country for 37 years with honor and distinction in the U. S. Army, Air Force, and the Kentucky Air National Guard where he was a part of the 123rd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing at Shewmaker Air National Guard Base. Following his deployment to South Korea during the USS Pueblo incident in, he began a dedicated career as a supervisor at the Naval Ordnance Station in Louisville, Kentucky, where he was a valued colleague and leader until his retirement in 1990. He was commissioned a Kentucky Colonel by Gov. Martha Layne Collins in 1986. 

Renowned for his storytelling prowess, Cliff’s tales of his childhood adventures and military experiences captivated the hearts of those lucky enough to hear them. An avid supporter of the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville basketball teams. Upon his retirement, golf became a favorite pastime, and he spent many days on the greens with his good friend, Marty. 

His Christian faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was a member of Thixton Lane Baptist Church and also spent many years serving at Bethlehem Baptist Church and Parkland Baptist Church.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 26 from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm at Schoppenhorst, Underwood and Brooks Funeral Home, 4895 N. Preston Highway, Shepherdsville, KY. The service will be 12:30 with interment following at Louisville Memorial Gardens West, 4400 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY.