Earl Ransom Chapman

Earl Ransom Chapman, 86, passed away Monday, January 1, 2024 following a period of declining health.

He was born January 28, 1937 in Burke County and was the son of the late Gus and Sarah Lail Chapman.

Earl was a long-time member of Mount Gilead Baptist Church. He retired from the Street Department of the City of Morganton. He enjoyed his work and the many friendships he made while working there.

In addition to his parents, Earl was preceded in death by his wife, Azalee Childers Chapman, son, Jeffery Earl Chapman, daughter, Kathy Diane Chapman, grandson, Darrell Gene Davis, sisters, Marie Towery and Minnie Smith, brothers, Forest, John, Lester and Parksie Chapman.

He is survived by daughters Barbara Stewart (Lee), Sandra Bentley (David), and Tammy Whitmire (Bill). Grandchildren Davie Bentley (Carrie), Daniel Bentley (Stephanie), Brittany Tidd (Mike), Katie Bentley, Samantha Padgett (Justin), Levi Whitmire (Amanda), Taylor Stewart, Sarah Byers (Travis), and 11 great grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am, Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at Mount Gilead Baptist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Randy Cook officiating.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the many staff members at Jonas Ridge Assisted Living Center, Jonas Ridge, NC, who cared for him during his residency with them and to Medi Home Hospice in Avery County.

Memorial Contributions may be made in his memory to either Mount Gilead Baptist Church, 4264 Mt. Gilead Church Rd., Connelly Springs, NC 28612 or Medi Home Hospice, 1955 Newland Hwy., Newland, NC 28657.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.