Affordable Housing Champion Michele Irene (Taylor) Chapman, 69, Loses Battle with Pancreatic Cancer
Known to Most as "Mama Chapman"
“To everything, there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1
Michele was a shining light in her family’s lives, a prayer warrior, a devoted mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and cherished friend. She is now reunited with a host of loved ones, her mother Ollie Juanita Taylor, father John Willie Taylor, Sr.; brother Timothy Calhoun; husband Richard Alton Chapman; and her beloved daughter Jennifer Monique Chapman.
WORSHIP
Michele began her journey with Christ at Ebenezer Baptist Church on Queen Street in Alexandria, Virginia, the Taylor family’s home church. She was also an active member of Old Town Community Church (formerly Downtown Baptist Church) on Washington Street in Alexandria, Virginia. A devoted member of Alfred Street Baptist Church (DG4) for nearly 30 years, Minister Michele Chapman always found joy in serving others and sharing the love of Christ. Michele was a member, and most importantly a mentor throughout her discipleship and several ministries. To name a few, she was an active member of the Senior’s Ministry, GriefShare Ministry, Divorce Care Ministry, Bible Study Fellowship, the Awana Club, Girls Scouts (Troop #1330), and Pastor’s Aide.
One of Michele’s most cherished moments was witnessing her grandson’s dedication in June 2020. Michele’s warmth, kindness, and steadfast faith were a beacon to all who knew her. “She taught us the true meaning of grace and compassion, always putting others before herself,” said the family.
Michele graduated from Alexandria City High School (formerly T.C. Williams) in 1974. She will be remembered during this year’s 50th reunion and remains in the hearts of her dear high school friends Patricia Griffin and Sandra Marshall. With a thirst for knowledge, Michele continued her studies at Northern Virginia Community College.
PUBLIC SERVICE
Michele was also a dedicated public servant working as an office manager with the Department of Labor and with Alexandria City Public Schools where she retired. She was a fierce advocate of affordable housing in Alexandria and served as Board Chair of the Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority, the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, and most recently on the resident’s association of The Landing. Her commitment to service extended to the Economic Opportunities Commission, Alexandria Early Childhood Commission, St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes Cub Scouts (Pack 1515), and the Northern Virginia Urban League’s Resource Mothers Program, where she led activities to improve outcomes for mothers and children.
Michele was an amazing mother and known as “Mama Chapman” by the many youths she met. Determined to provide her children with the best opportunities she could, she joined Jack and Jill of America, Inc, a membership organization that builds future African American leaders who are committed to culture and service. Michele was her children’s number one cheerleader! She enjoyed a variety of culinary dishes prepared by her daughter Jennifer, including their special, and sometimes secret, mother-daughter culinary travels. Michele was an avid supporter of her son John Chapman’s community leadership and could be found at the forefront of each of his Alexandria city council campaigns.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” – Revelation 21:4.
Michele Chapman’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith and love for her family. She is survived by her cherished son John Taylor Chapman, her daughter-in-law, Monika Jones Chapman, and her grandchild, John Taylor Chapman, II; her siblings Toni N. Taylor, John W. Taylor, Jr., G. Stanley Taylor; and nephews LeJune Farmer, Erika Chappelle, Jason Taylor and James Taylor; great nephew, Eric Chapelle, and a host of Cousins, Friends, and Community Members. Michele’s legacy of love, strength, and faith lives on through them.
We find solace in knowing that Michele is now at peace, embraced by God’s everlasting love, and we look forward to the day when we will be reunited with her in Heaven.
Viewing will be held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Alfred Street Baptist Church (301 S Alfred St, Alexandria, VA 22314). A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 30th 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the same location.
