Ms. Cora Anne Chapman

Cora Anne Chapman, beloved sister, aunt, veteran, and public servant, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, at Complete Care at Green Acres in Bayville, New Jersey. She was born on August 25, 1951, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to Flossie Irene Harris Chapman and Thead Chapman of North Carolina. Raised in a large family grounded in discipline, education, faith, and service, Cora carried those values throughout her life. Cora proudly served in the United States Army, Regular Army, beginning active duty on December 2, 1981. Over 19 years and 8 months—spanning peacetime and the Gulf War—she rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6) and served as a 71L30 Administrative Specialist. In roles that demanded integrity, precision, and leadership, she provided essential administrative, personnel, and operational support across multiple commands, including U.S. Army Garrison, Fort Monroe, Virginia, with readiness stateside and abroad. Her professionalism and steady leadership as a noncommissioned officer earned wide respect. Her decorations included the Meritorious Service Medal; Joint Service Commendation Medal; Army Commendation Medal (4); Joint Service Achievement Medal (2); Army Achievement Medal (2); Joint Meritorious Unit Award; Army Good Conduct Medal (6); Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon; Army Service Ribbon; and Overseas Service Ribbon. She continually sharpened her skills through extensive military education in leadership, administration, logistics, security, and advanced specialty training. After retiring from the Army on December 31, 2001, Cora continued her commitment to public service as a federal civilian, serving with the Department of Defense and later the Defense Intelligence Agency from 2008 to 2019 as a Staff Officer (OSBA12). She retired on September 30, 2019, completing nearly four decades of combined military and federal service. She also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Saint Leo University, reflecting her dedication to lifelong learning and professional excellence. Beyond her career, Cora was known for her warmth, humor, and generous spirit. She loved shopping and, above all, staying connected with family. Her long phone calls—full of laughter, thoughtful advice, and genuine listening—kept loved ones close and supported. Cora was preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Evelyn L. Chapman, Colonel Thaddius Chapman, Lonnie E. Chapman, Percy C. Chapman, Willie J. Chapman, Sr., Reginald D. Chapman, and Evangelist Missionary Barbara Jean Cutler. She is survived by her brother, Reverend Andrew S. Chapman; nieces and nephews Richard Chapman, YvonneDe Shilito, Willie Chapman, Jr., Stephanie Chapman- Monroe, Thaddius Chapman, Regina Chapman, Patrina Branch, Theodore Cutler, Jr., Dominic Cutler, and Terence Cutler; and many treasured extended family members, in- laws, and friends. Cora’s legacy is one of honorable service, steadfast faith, and deep devotion to family. She will be remembered for the love she gave so freely and the example she set for those who follow. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to R.D. Jenkins & Son Funeral Company

Ms. Cora Anne Chapman

August 25, 1951 - December 21, 2025