James Edwin “Buddy” Chapman Jr., of Smithfield passed away at his home on Tuesday July 31, 2018.  Buddy was born Dec. 19th, 1929 to the late James Edwin Chapman Sr. and Mary Salome Kent Chapman.  Born and raised in Smithfield, Buddy graduated from Smithfield High School in 1950 where he played on the first SHS football team.  After high school he served in the United States Army where he was honorably discharged in 1956.  He then spent 36 years working at Newport News Shipbuilding where he retired as a marine designer.  After retirement from the shipyard, he received his U.S. Merchant Marine Officer license from the U.S. Coast Guard.  

Buddy was a member of George F. Dashiell American Legion Post 49 for 45 years where he also served as the zone lieutenant governor.  He also was a member and past president of the Smithfield Ruritan Club for 60 years.  Buddy was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church.   

He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Patricia Jones Chapman; son, James “Jimmy” E. Chapman III; and three daughters, Patricia C. O’Neal (Dock), Penny C. Stanley (Sonny), and Marianne C. Mills (Gary).  Buddy has nine grandchildren, Jessalyn, Dock, Jaime, Justin, Jeremy, Vincent, Aubrey, Sarah and Reagan; and six great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by his sister, Edwina “Eddie K.” C. Willard.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two half-sisters, Henrietta C. Gwaltney and Caroline C. Bell.  A funeral service will be held on Saturday, Aug. 4, 11 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church with Dan Elmore officiating.  Burial will be private.  The family will receive friends at the residence.  The family suggest memorial contributions be made to Isle of Wight Christian Outreach, P.O. Box 253 Smithfield, VA 23431 or Trinity United Methodist Church, 201 Cedar Street Smithfield, VA 23430. 

Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.