Madeline Jeanne (James) Chapman passed away peacefully on Monday, October 3, 2016 at the Jewish Convalescent Home in New Bedford.
Born in New Bedford on December 14, 1930, she was the daughter of Ethel M. (Goodwin) and Elmer H. James. Madeline was the loving wife of the late William E. Chapman, to whom she was married for 58 years.
Madeline was also predeceased by her daughter Donna J. Chapman, brothers Donald and Wayne James, and sister Mary Mahaffey.
Madeline was a faithful Catholic and attended mass regularly. In the past, she volunteered at St. Mary's Home for Children and was a member of St. Julie's choir.
Raised in New Bedford, she attended New Bedford Public Schools and graduated from Bridgewater State Teachers College in 1952. Madeline was an elementary school teacher for the New Bedford Public Schools, retiring after 30 years of service. She loved working with children and was delighted when remembered by past students. Madeline was energetic, adventurous and full of fun. She enjoyed outdoor activities especially walking, tennis and golf throughout her life. Following her retirement she relocated to Jupiter, Florida with her husband. She and Bill enjoyed many happy years there. Madeline returned to New Bedford in 2014 to be closer to her family.
Madeline was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. She loved her family with all her heart and was happiest when spending time with her children and grandchildren.
Madeline is survived by her children Lynne Weir and husband Brian of Dartmouth, David Chapman of East Boston, and Mary Chapman of New Bedford; her grandchildren Matthew Chapman and wife Debra of Greenville R.I., Ryan Carreiro and wife Michelle of Westport, and Andrew Carreiro of New Bedford; and several nieces and nephews.
Through this journey we have encountered many dedicated doctors, nurses, therapists, care givers, and friends both in Florida and Massachusetts. We are forever grateful for their support and the loving care provided to our mother.
In honor of Madeline, greet a stranger with a smile, find delight in the face of a child, lend a hand to someone in need, and always remember that even in the darkest of times every day is a beautiful day.
A private Funeral Mass was held at St. Lawrence Martyr Church on Friday October 7, 2016. According to her wishes, Madeline will be cremated and then interred with her husband and daughter at Pine Grove Cemetery in New Bedford. Arrangements were by the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.