Born in Waxahachie, Texas, on March 13, 1935, to William Barnett and Marjorie Fearis Chapman, William became a licensed amateur radio operator at age 16, earning the call sign of W5YJB; he continued this hobby throughout his life. He attended college at the University of Texas at Austin and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Order. In 1956, he married Helen Callicutt. He graduated in 1957 with a Bachelor of Arts in economics. After graduation, he began his career as an insurance executive, which he pursued for approximately twenty years. He then became a public arbitrator with American Arbitration Association for over twenty years. During this time, he also assisted in estate planning and was a board-certified investment planner. Throughout the years, he and his family enjoyed many travels, including Europe, Mexico and Central America. After retirement, he had more time to pursue his passions, including amateur radio, classical music and reading. As a lifelong learner, he continued to educate himself both in and out of the classroom, keeping up with current events and politics. He was also an avid animal lover and had many beloved dogs. He is preceded in death by his mother and father. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Helen Callicutt Chapman, his son, William B. Chapman, III, his son's wife, Karen Chapman and his grandson, Christopher Chapman. |