Joetta Chatman, affectionately called “Chalie” by her husband and “Choc” by her family, was born on July 25, 1957, in Athens, Tx, to the late Jemmie Franks and Darthy Mae Franks. She attended public school in East Texas before moving to Dallas, graduating from South Oak Cliff high school. Having a love for people and a heart to serve, Joetta maintained a career for over 30 years as a teacher and bus driver for the Dallas Independent School District. On August 16, 1975, Joetta met the love of her life, and at an early age, she united in marriage with Will Chatman Sr. and remained married until his death in May 2022. To this legacy and union of 47 years, three children were born.
Joetta was a woman of great faith, loving, kind, humble-spirited with a huge heart, and very patient. Joetta was a fun-loving woman who made a lasting impact on all those she touched, a true example of how to make a difference in the lives of others. She loved her family. They were the joy of her life. She loved crossword puzzles, game shows, gospel music, shopping, spending time with family and friends, and being a servant of God. Joetta offered amazing advice while supporting and instilling confidence and the word of God in you. Anyone that knew her would tell you she was always welcoming and met you with a smile. She saw the good in others, was always willing to help wherever she could, gave generously anything she had, and didn’t mind feeding you. Joetta was a devoted Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunt, Grandmother, Relative, Friend, and so much more.
On Monday, August 14, 2023, Joetta entered into her eternal home of Glory. She was welcomed by both of her parents, Jemmie and Darthy Franks; husband, Will Chatman, Sr.; sisters, Gloria F. Whitman and Loretta Roberts; brothers, William “Son” Franks, Sr., Thomas Franks, Sr. and Roy Joy Wesley, Sr.
Joetta’s loving memory will be cherished by her daughter, Latrece Chatman; sons, Will Chatman, Jr. and William Chatman; granddaughters, WilChal’a Chatman, Miracle Chatman and Neva’eh Chatman; grandsons, Will Chatman III and Devin Stewart; great-grandchild, Grant Chatman; sisters, Trissa(Pat) Sherman (Charles Sherman), Janice Emerson(Carl Emerson), Mary Franks and Debra Franks; brother, Herman Franks (Lucy Franks) and along with a host of nieces, nephews, god-children, relatives, and many friends who will miss her greatly.
