A. Robert Chapman
Robert Chapman (1939-2024) On Saturday, August 31, 2024, A. Robert Chapman, passed peacefully at age 85. He was born in Newburgh, NY, on August 15, 1939, to the late Alfred I. and Josephine Chapman. He was also predeceased by his stepmother Ann Chapman and two brothers William McAfee and David McAfee, both of Modena, NY.
He is survived by Larry Sullivan, his husband of 35 years, of Martinsville, VA, his sister Thelma Myers of Hagerstown, MD, and many nieces and nephews.
Robert graduated from Newburgh Free Academy, Newburgh, NY, from Westminster Choir College, Princeton, NJ, earning a BA in organ, voice and conducting, and from Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, in organ performance. He studied piano with William Johnson of Newburgh, NY, and studied organ with Dr. John A. Davis (of West Point USMA), Alexander McCurdy, Richard Enright and Carl Paukert.
Robert played concerts throughout the United States and Europe. He also served as the organist in churches in Wilmington, North Carolina, Cleveland, Ohio and in Roanoke, VA, where he retired from First Presbyterian Church after 27 years. Upon his retirement, he became the Organist/Director of Music at Broad Street Christian Church, Martinsville, VA, for 14 years.
He founded and directed the summer organ recital series “Meet the King” and “Four Sundays @ 4” for 27 years in Roanoke and the “Martinsville Handbell Ensemble” community advanced handbell choir, and a second “Four Sundays @ 4” for many years in Martinsville.
Robert enjoyed studying foreign languages and was an avid roller coaster fan. He will always be remembered for his amazing musical talent, joy, friendliness and humor by all those who loved him and will miss him.
A memorial service for Robert will be held at a future date. Memorial gifts in Robert’s name may be sent to Broad Street Christian Church (106 Broad Street, Martinsville, VA, 24112) or to Martinsville Henry County SPCA (132 Joseph Martin Highway, Martinsville, VA, 24112).
Online condolences may be made by visiting www.bassettfuneralservice.com. Bassett Funeral Service is serving the Chapman family.
