Ruth Erlinger

Ruth was a devoted member of her church and shared many years of music with her first husband, Virgil Chapman, who served as a music minister. Together, they nurtured a deep love of singing within their family from an early age. After Virgil’s passing, Ruth courageously raised their children with strength and grace.

Later in life, Ruth discovered a joy for traveling and visiting casinos. After retiring, she met and married her second husband, Don Erlinger, and together they enjoyed many trips and attended Shriner’s conventions, creating cherished memories along the way.

She was preceded in death by parents; husbands, Virgil Chapman and Don Erlinger; brother, John Stafford and two infant brothers.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Marilyn Sims and husband John; sons, Jeff Chapman, Greg Chapman and wife Brenda and Pat Chapman and wife Anne; grandchildren, John Sims, Jr., Shawn Sims, Jill West (Scott), Debbie Chapman, Greg Chapman, Jr. (Amanda), Dawn Hamm (Brad), Ryan Chapman (Tomoko) Chapman, Blake Chapman (Sophie) and Niall Whatley (Renee); and numerous great grandchildren; sister, Dorothy Sorenson and extended loving family members and friends.

A graveside service will be held at Forest Park West Cemetery, located at 4400 Meriwether Rd., Shreveport, Louisiana, 71109. The service is scheduled for Monday, December 8, 2025, starting at 11:00 am.

The family would like to thank Garden Park Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and staff, especially Lloyd Adams, and Christus Hospice for all the love and attention given to our mother.