Danny Lee Chapman

Born March 14, 1947, in Charlotte, NC, Danny was the son of Carlyle Ellington Chapman and Wade Smyre Chapman. He attended Belmont High school, where he played football and was voted “most dependable,” graduating in 1965. He went on to Western Carolina University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business in 1969.

Danny served in the US Army from 1969 until 1972 and was honorably discharged at the rank of E4. During his service, he was a Huey Helicopter instructor at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland.

Following military service, Danny worked for Ligget & Meyers as a Regional Sales Manager until 1985. He then joined Electrolux as a Divisional Sales Manager before starting his own business in 1990, American Central Vacuum, from which he later retired. Danny valued the independence of business ownership and, especially, the lasting relationships he built with customers and the community—connections that remained important to him throughout his life.

An avid golfer, Danny also loved time at the beach—especially when golf was part of the plan. He took particular joy in teaching his grandchildren how to fish. Known for his quick wit, Danny delighted in “Dad jokes” and practical jokes that kept his family smiling. He was also a devoted fan of NC State football and basketball.

Danny was a member of Citivan International throughout the 80’s and 90’s. He also played a pivotal role in starting the soccer program at Southeast Guilford High school in Greensboro and coached soccer at all levels from the 1980’s until 2002. Danny attended First Baptist Church in Belmont, NC, and later St. Paul Presbyterian Church in Greensboro, NC.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Carlyle Ellington Chapman and Wade Smyre Chapman; his sister, Nancy Rose Oliff; and his nephew, Stephen Oliff. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Regina Hovis Chapman; his son, Jeff Chapman; his daughter, Liza (Eric Mikkelson); two grandchildren, Jacob and Evan; his nephew, Chris Oliff; and his grand nephew, Wyatt Oliff.

A Graveside Service will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 3901 Forest Lawn Dr, Greensboro, NC 27455, on September 15, 2026, at 11:00 am.

The family would like to thank the staff of Beacon Place (AuthoraCare), especially the nurses and Chaplain, and the ICU staff at Wesley Long Hospital. Memorial contributions can be made to Beacon Place (AuthoraCare) Hospice, or the American Cancer Society.