David Irvin Chapman

Born in Diamond, West Virginia, Dave was a 1964 graduate of DuPont High School, where his classmates knew him fondly as “Butch.”

Dave was a man of quiet strength, great character, and unwavering integrity—one who truly walked softly and carried a big stick. His life reflected these values in his relationship with the Lord, the way he loved his family, and the way he worked. He was always eager to know what was going on in the lives of his family, asking Janice, “have you talked to…’ Dave enjoyed talking to his children and grandchildren about everything and nothing, so many calls and conversations.

A member of the Rand First Church of the Nazarene, Dave shared many memorable conversations with his pastor about the need for a clock on the back wall—an exchange that captured both his humor and his practicality.

Dave married his high school sweetheart, Janice, and together they built a life rooted in devotion and partnership. They were looking forward to celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary this June, a milestone that speaks to the depth of their bond.

Dave proudly served his country during the Vietnam War as a Specialist in the United States Army. Throughout his life, he held a variety of jobs, but he was especially proud of being the owner and creator of Country Roads Carpenter Shop, which he ran from his garage. His craftsmanship was matched only by his work ethic. His final professional role was with the State of West Virginia Insurance Commission, where he served as a fraud investigator.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lyle Chapman; his mother, Sarah Elizabeth Chapman, his sister, Nancy Harper; his paternal and maternal grandparents; and his beloved uncle, Punk.

Those left to carry his legacy include his wife, Janice Chapman; daughter, Bonita (Jimmy) Knapp of Belle, West Virginia; son, David (Julie) Chapman of Aiken, South Carolina; and son, Matthew (Angela) Chapman of Rand, West Virginia. He is also survived by his brother, Lynn (Debbie) Chapman of Diamond, West Virginia; sister-in-law, Charlotte (Tim) Bostick of Edmond, OK.

Dave’s greatest joy was his grandchildren, of whom he was endlessly proud: Matthew, Mark, and John Michael Knapp; Ethan (Mackenzie) Chapman; Evan (engaged to Evan Hazel) and Emma Chapman; Samantha and Lily Chapman. He was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his great-grandson, Clay Irvin, who will carry his middle name forward. Several nieces and nephews also survive him.

“To live in the hearts, you leave behind is to not die.”

A visitation with family and friends will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, March 22, 2026, at Stevens & Grass Funeral Home, Malden. A Service to Celebrate Dave's life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 23, 2026, at Rand First Church of the Nazarene with his sons, David Chapman and Rev. Matthew Chapman officiating. Burial with Military Rites will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Donel C. Kinnard Memorial State Veterans Cemetery, Dunbar.

The online guest book can be accessed at www.stevensandgrass.com.