Diana Elizabeth Chapman

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Diana Chapman, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, who departed this life on July 13, 2026, at the age of 86. Diana was born on November 25, 1939, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, to the late Gerald and Kathleen Findley, who instilled in her a profound faith in her love of God, scripture memorization, and skills for learning and creativity.

Raised in Ottawa, Diana's early education was completed at Glebe Collegiate Institute, in Ottawa, where she completed her graduation certificate in 1959. She attended Houghton College in NY from 1957 to 1960. Diana transferred to Eastern Nazarene College in Quincy, MA and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education in 1962.

Diana pursued a teaching career to nurture young minds immediately after college. She worked as an elementary school teacher for nine years. Her classrooms were filled with artistic warmth, laughter, and the joy of discovery, reflecting her unwavering commitment to her students. After her teaching career, Diana embraced her entrepreneurial spirit and artistic talents by creating a flourishing, small business with the slogan "Created for you with Love". With her skilled hands and creative eye, she crafted beautiful pottery, painted intricate art on wood, and designed exquisite creations with dried and silk flowers. Diana left behind a legacy of artistic treasures cherished by many.

Diana married her college sweetheart and love of her life, Donald Chapman, in a ceremony held in the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Ottawa on August 27, 1960. Their marriage spanned over 65 years, a testament to their promised commitment of their wedding vows and enduring Christ-like love for each other. Together, they built a family imbued with Christian values of kindness, generosity, integrity, and creativity.

Diana is survived by her devoted husband, Donald, who stood by her side for more than six decades. She leaves behind her cherished son, David Chapman, and his precious spouse, Tricia, who were a source of immense pride and joy. Diana's legacy continues through her adoring grandchildren, David Chapman and Kyrsten Chapman, who brought boundless happiness and fulfillment to her life. She is also survived by her beloved brothers, David Findley of Ft. Myers, FL and James Findley of Ottawa, Ontario who shared in her life's journey with love and family companionship.

Diana was predeceased by her parents, Gerald and Kathleen Findley, who undoubtedly greeted her with open arms in Heaven.

In honoring Diana's life, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an unsponsored child of Compassion International or to the Dunnellon First Methodist Church building fund, both she has lovingly donated.

Diana's presence in the lives of her family and friends was a precious gift, and she will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, and unwavering love. Her memory will forever inspire those who knew her to live with Christ-like grace and gratitude.

A service with friends and family will be held on August 29, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the Dunnellon First Methodist Church in Dunnellon, FL, to celebrate Diana's life, where her loved ones will gather to share memories and find comfort in the enduring legacy she leaves behind.