September 29, 1934 - April 29, 2026

James (Jim) Lee Chapman, a devoted servant of God, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026, in Reno, Nevada, at the age of 91.

Jim was born on September 29, 1934, in Fallon, Nevada, to Donald and Ellen Chapman. He grew up in a close-knit family and graduated from Churchill County High School before attending Utah State University, where he played football. Answering a call to serve his country, Jim entered officer cadet training and received his commission and pilot wings in 1955. He returned to Reno and flew with the Nevada National Air Guard until 1963.

Jim later attended Ambassador College in Pasadena, California. In 1966, he was ordained into the ministry of the Church of God, dedicating his life to preaching the Gospel and shepherding congregations across the country. For over 50 years, he served as convention coordinator and pastor for churches in California, Nevada, Ohio, Louisiana, Florida, Georgia and Oregon.

In 1955, Jim married the love of his life, Barbara Hiibel of Fallon, Nevada. Together they shared a remarkable 70 years of marriage, building a strong, loving family grounded in faith.

Jim was a man who cherished time with family and friends, greatly valuing the fellowship and laughter these moments brought. He had a passion for flying, hunting, fishing, traveling and camping. Jim’s legacy of faith, service, and love will endure in the lives of all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Donald and Francis; and his son, Wayne Chapman.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Chapman; his children, Janelle (Mark) Fike of Reno, Nevada, Jim (Romney) Chapman of San Antonio, Texas and Erin (David) Buckley of Byron Center, Michigan; and his grandchildren, Justin (Anna) Fike, Kristen (Justin) Kramer, Chelsea (Gavin) Pendergast, Maci Chapman, Jackson (Sabrina) Chapman, Dylan Buckley, Jaron Buckley and Austin Buckley, along with 8 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service for family was held on Tuesday, May 5, at Churchill County Cemetery in Fallon, Nevada.  A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jim’s memory to your charity of choice.