Mary Ellen Chapman

Cincinnati, OH Mary Ellen Chapman, a teacher for 33 years in the Roanoke County, VA school system, died Tuesday, January 7, 2014. She was 101 years old. Mary Ellen was born in Bonsak, VA and married Benjamin E. Chapman, a lawyer and former Representative to the Virginia State Legislature. Mary Ellen chose to spend her entire career working daily in the classroom with children, primarily in the first grade. She was loved by her students whom she taught to read, write, and improve their social development. In addition, she was chosen in the 1960s to represent Roanoke County in leading the introduction and implementation of the Head Start Program, which was highly successful. Mary Ellen represented the finest tradition of a classroom teacher in a public school system. Mary Ellen was a 50-year member of the First Methodist Church in Salem, VA, participating and leading many Christian-focused programs. She was a founding member of the Order of Eastern Star (OES #23), and at her death was the last surviving founder. Surviving her are her only son, Benjamin E. Chapman, Jr., his wife Sally Chapman, granddaughters Angela Sanders and Christina DiVenere, and 4 great-grandchildren, all living in the Cincinnati, OH area. There will be a family service in Cincinnati, followed by visitation from 6 to 8 pm Sunday, January 19, 2014 at John M. Oakey and Son Funeral Home, Salem. Graveside services will be conducted at East Hill Cemetery, Monday, January 20, 2014 at 10:00 am with Rev. Stephen Bray officiating.