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Nathan Chapman Sr., 89, veteran, father

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Nathan Chapman Sr. spent many years as a morgue attendant. After retirement he was contracted by funeral homes throughout the city to work as a limousine driver. The U.S. veteran died Sept. 22. He was 89.

Chapman was born on March 27, 1922 in Ware County, Ga. He was educated in the Philadelphia School District. He enlisted in the United States Army on Feb. 22, 1943 and was honorably discharged on Dec. 17, 1945.

In later years he continued his education at the Echols Mortuary Science School. He was hired by the Medical Examiners Office in March 1955 as a morgue attendant and retired in 1987. His family said he loved his work.

He united in holy matrimony on Jan. 17, 1943 to his childhood sweetheart, the late Harriet Louise Carter. This union produced two children, Nathan Jr. and Zara.

He was a member of the Elmwood Community Methodist Church and served as chairman of the trustees, a member of the Usher Board, Male Chorus and a Sunday school teacher. He was a faithful member of Elmwood Community for over 70 years.

Chapman was a Masonic brother for over 60 years. He was a member of Heriones of Jericho Alpha Court No. 23-Past Worshipful Joshua, Royal and Select Eureka No 7, Demolay Consistory No.1-Sublime Prince, William Cooper Holy Royal Arch No. 6-Past High Priest and Past Master of Christian Lodge No. 12.

Chapman is survived by: his daughter, Zara and a host of other relatives and friends.

Services will be held Oct. 3 at Elmwood Community Methodist Church, 4523 Chester Avenue. The viewing will be at 9 a.m. The service will start at 10 a.m. Yarborough and Rocke Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Last modified on Sunday, 02 October 2011 15:52
Stephanie Guerilus

Stephanie Guerilus is a General Assignment Reporter for The Philadelphia Tribune.  Contact Stephanie at sguerilus@phillytrib.com

2 comments

  • Thomas Bell

    I had the privelage of meeting Mr. Chapman through his granddaughter Little Zara and I am greatful to have meet such a man. To hear of his achievements and love for his family was a honor and i pray that I one day can i can live up to a fraction of his legacy.

    Thomas Bell (family friend)

    Thomas Bell Thursday, 06 October 2011 10:25 Comment Link
  • Zara Sims

    This was my grandfather and he was lived an abundant life. He was a dedicated man of God that loved his family and friends. He loved family gatherings, sitting by the fireplace, and he loved potato salad! I will miss him dearly.

    Love, Little Zara

    Zara Sims Thursday, 06 October 2011 09:48 Comment Link

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