Carol Ida Chapman

If there was a social gathering to attend, a trip to take, a friend to catch up with, or someone who needed a helping hand or a listening ear, chances are Carol was already there. She often said, "This is not a dress rehearsal." Those words reflected the way she lived her life—with curiosity, laughter, and a genuine love for people.

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Carol graduated from Redford High School, where she met Austin "Bud" Chapman. They later married and shared nearly 70 years together, building a life filled with family, military adventures, and countless memories.

Carol attended Michigan State University, where she studied Home Economics and proudly became a member of the Chi Omega Sorority. Her love for Michigan State University and Chi Omega remained throughout her life, and she later helped support the construction of a new Chi Omega house.

After marrying Bud, Carol embraced the adventures of military life as a Navy wife. Together they lived in Rota, Spain; Brunswick, Maine; and Pensacola, Florida, where they welcomed their first daughter, Terry. After Bud's Navy service, they settled in Okemos, Michigan, where they welcomed two more daughters, Tracy and Sandy.

Carol began her career as a teacher before finding a second career in real estate with Tomie Raines Realtors. She became a respected Realtor in the Greater Lansing area, but what she valued most were the friendships she made with fellow agents and clients.

Carol never seemed to know a stranger. She loved people and could strike up a conversation almost anywhere, making others feel comfortable and welcome.

She also loved staying active. In her younger years, she played in a tennis league, enjoyed ski trips with friends, figure skating, and even performed in a local Follies kick line. She carried that same adventurous spirit throughout her life.

Travel was one of Carol's greatest joys. She explored destinations around the world, enjoyed experiencing different cultures, and rarely returned home without a few treasured recuerdos—little reminders of the places she had visited and the memories she made.

Carol also had a lifelong love of dogs. Over the years, she adored her childhood dog Skippy, Punky through the Naval years, and later her Maltese companions, a spirited Jack Russell Terrier, and her beloved Chihuahuas—Chi Chi, Cha Cha, Ellie, and Poppy.

Above all, Carol's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend whose love and support will always be remembered.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Austin "Bud" Chapman.

She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Terry Chapman, Tracy Franklin (Scott Franklin), and Sandy Chapman; her grandchildren, Chelsea Franklin (Mike Peay), Isabelle Franklin (Abram Soliman), Shawn Franklin, and Ryan Tuttle; along with dear friends, neighbors, and many others whose lives she touched.

Carol leaves behind a legacy of kindness, friendship, and a life well lived. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Gorsline Runciman, 1730 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing on September 13th, with visitation at 12 noon, and memorial service at 1pm. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor Carol's life, share memories, and celebrate the joy she brought to so many.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation, in Carol's honor, to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906