Lilly Chapman

Lilly Opal Lacy Chapman passed from this life the morning of 23 September 2023 at the Foothills Place Assisted Living Home in Tucson. She was preceded in death by her husband John Chapman, son Russell and daughter-in-law Paula Chapman. Also preceding her were parents Howard & Alice Lacy, sisters Genevieve, Vivian, Pearl and brother Richard. Survivors include son Steve, his wife Joan, sisters Faye, Dolly, Verna, Harriet and brother Johnny. Lilly came from pioneer stock, her family story is interwoven with the history of the southwest. She was born in 1927 in Miami, AZ. Her parents and grandparents lived and worked all across the region inspiring her love of history which was a big part of her life. After living in the Globe-Miami area as an infant, Lilly grew up in Hurley NM, San Simon AZ, and Lordsburg NM. She met John Chapman in San Simon and in 1945 they were married. After his service in the navy, they lived in Morenci AZ where John worked for the company railroad. He was later recruited to work in southern Peru for another open pit mine where he rose to the position of Railroad Superintendent. Lilly’s time in Peru was a highlight of her life. When the opportunity to take over John’s family farm came up in 1975, they had already returned to San Simon. Lilly really enjoyed country life and always had a town job as a kitchen Manager. She was a hard worker and excellent cook. After John’s passing in 1998, Lilly & Steve continued to operate Chapman Farms until 2008 when they sold to a corporate pecan operation. Lilly retired to a house in Bowie AZ where 3 of her sisters also lived. In 2017 she moved to Portal AZ and lived on the property with Steve and Joan until January 2023 when she entered Foothills Place. Lilly came from a large and loving family with deep ties to the land. She loved nature, animals, birds and the mountains. History and Genealogy were a passion for her. Her life and times make a book of their own. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, December 17, 2023, from noon until 4:00 pm at Westlawn Chapel. In lieu of flowers the family suggest donations be made to the St. Jude's Children Hospital one of Lilly's favorite charities.

Lilly Chapman

December 17, 1927 - September 23, 2023