Helen Irene Chapman

Helen Irene (Moe) Chapman, age 95, passed away peacefully March 20. She was born in Chicago and raised in Oak Park, IL. She graduated from Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, Iowa, in 1943 but spent her sophomore year at Iowa State University where she met Bill Chapman, a senior and native Iowan. The romance continued and they were married in Oak Park in June 1944 and moved to Detroit. They had four children in 5 ½ years from 1946 to 1952. When the youngest was a kindergartener, Helen secured more college credits in order to teach elementary grades and did so for twenty years in Birmingham Public Schools, retiring in 1981. She continued her love of teaching, reading stories to elementary school students into her 90’s.

After her retirement, Helen and Bill traveled internationally, just as the family had traveled throughout the United States in the 1960’s. Helen was active in church volunteer work and service clubs. Her life was centered around family and friends.

In April 2014 Bill passed away, just before their 70th wedding anniversary. Helen remained at home aided by a team of caregivers who helped her, in every way.

Helen is survived by her children, Janet, Nancy, Bruce (Betty) and David (Kathy), four grandchildren Eric (Eleven), Cara (Javier) Favela, Stephanie, and Elizabeth and two great grandchildren, Kiley and Keagan Favela. Special thanks to Helen’s at home caregivers, led by Andre’a McCray.

Visitation will be Monday, March 27, from 5 to 7 PM at Northbrook Presbyterian Church, 22055 West Fourteen Mile Road (at Lahser) Beverly Hills, Michigan 48025, 248 642-0200. A Celebration of Life service will take place at the church the following day, Tuesday, March 28, at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Northbrook Presbyterian Church, Redford Service Learning Academy, or a charity of your choice. Please leave condolences at www.pixleyfuneral.com.