BETTY JEAN CHAPMAN,

94, died peacefully on October 5, 2021 in Little Rock. She was born January 27, 1927 in Peach Orchard, Ark.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Pelham and Esther Austin; siblings, Pelham Jr., Donald “Buck” and Jim Austin; husband, L. D. Chapman and great-grandson, Garrett Hogan.

Mrs. Chapman is survived by her sister, Janice Austin Ford; her children, Richard (Beverly) Chapman and Marsa Chapman Salazar; her four grandchildren, Kate (Hamilton) Bitely, Sara Chapman, Austin (Ryan) Chapman, and Gabriel Salazar and two great-grandchildren, Brooke and Jacob Bitely.

Betty was a distinguished educator who dedicated much of her life to helping others learn. After graduating high school as valedictorian, she received her undergraduate degree from Arkansas State University. She then went on to earn two master’s degrees in education.

She taught all grades, first through twelfth, during her three decades teaching, primarily first grade at Brady and Terry Elementary schools in Little Rock, Ark.

Mrs. Chapman’s highest priority was creating a warm and supportive environment for her family. She excelled at every aspect of homemaking, especially cooking, sewing, and a variety of arts and crafts. She was an avid bridge player, a fan of the Saint Louis Cardinals and all Razorback sports, and she loved the outdoors.

Betty was a lifelong and devout member of The United Methodist Church.

Arrangements by Smith Little Rock Funeral Home. Private service for immediate family only due to Covid-19. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Presbyterian Village Foundation, 510 North Brookside Drive, Little Rock, Ark., 72205. Online guestbook: www.smithfamilycares.com.