Laura B. Chapman

LAURA BEATRICE CHAPMAN, November 2, 1937 to September 14, 2025

It is with our deepest love, respect, gratitude, and sorrow that we bid farewell to Laura Beatrice Chapman. A devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, Laura’s faith in God and love for her family were the cornerstones of her life. Her faith was the beacon that illuminated her journey.  Laura was an active member of First Baptist Church at 101 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, North Carolina.  She joined the church in 2002 and faithfully served in numerous roles including the Women’s Fellowship, Missionary Circle, and Senior Ministry. She especially cherished teaching Sunday school. Her weekly attendance at Bible study reflected her unwavering dedication, which she maintained until her health limited her participation. Her steadfast commitment to her faith community brought her great joy and meaningful fellowship with others. She was a member of Greater Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, Brooklyn, New York, and later joined Cornerstone Baptist Church, Brooklyn, New York, which she attended with her mother, Mamie Turner.

Her warmth and generous spirit were the bonds that united her family. Holidays, family reunions—such as the Williams-Thorpe-Brandon gatherings—and every celebration became opportunities to draw closer and deepen family connections. Laura welcomed extended and honorary family with open arms, nurturing bonds that transcended time and distance. Her love for children, who brought joy to her heart, was especially evident and deeply felt.

After the death of her husband, Laura raised three daughters while working full time. Laura was determined to complete her college education. Despite the challenges, her drive and resilience propelled her to earn a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Baruch College.  Throughout her more than 30-year career with the Federal Government, she managed offices in New York City and Seattle, excelling and earning numerous promotions over her distinguished career. She retired as Federal General Services Administration Manager.  In her retirement, Laura realized many dreams: a home amidst peaceful surroundings, welcoming her cherished grandson, and witnessing her daughters’ growth and contributions alongside her family and friends.

Laura loved reading, listening to music and pursued her passion for genealogy. She was an accomplished genealogist with a deep interest in African American history. Over the decades, she meticulously researched her family history through various methods, including searching government records, interviewing family members, and exploring archives and historical documents throughout many states. Her extensive research into her family history uncovered unique stories and connections that enriched her family’s legacy.

Laura was a tireless advocate for civic participation and public education.  She volunteered with the American Red Cross and as a reader for recordings for the blind. Over the years, she actively participated in strengthening democracy by increasing voter registration efforts and serving as a poll worker. Laura was an accomplished public speaker and proud member of Toastmasters.  She was also a lifelong member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

Laura was preceded in death by her beloved parents Mamie Turner and Wiliam Branch Turner, her husband Benjamin Chapman Jr., daughter Verlina Edwards, siblings Ella Dunn, Grace Tracy, William Turner, nephews Martin Dunn and Eric Tracy, and grand-nephew Nathanial Dunn.

Laura leaves to cherish her memory a host of family and friends who feel her loss deeply, including her daughters Robbin Chapman and April Chapman, grandson Brandon St. Luce, son-in-law Phillipe St. Luce, cousin John Alston, nephews Terrance Tracey and Steven Dunn, her many grand- and great-grand nephews and nieces, and her devoted friend and caretaker, Doris Kearse.

Her life was a testament to faith, resilience, and love. Her extraordinary legacy will live on in every life she touched. She has transitioned to a peaceful and joyous place, where her spirit and memories continue to inspire and give strength. We honor a life beautifully lived. May she rest in peace, embraced by God's eternal love.

Public Viewing:  12:00 PM- 7:00PM, Thursday, September 25, 2025, Lea Funeral Home, 2500 Poole Road, Raleigh, NC

Funeral Service:  12:00 PM, Friday, September 26, 2025, at First Baptist Church, 101 S. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC.

Visitation:  11:30 AM - 12:00 PM, preceding the service at the Church.

Interment:  Mt. Hope Cemetery, 120 Prospect Avenue, Raleigh, NC.

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