Jerry Clay Chapman, Sr.
(May 7, 1934 ~ April 22, 2017)

Rev. Jerry Clay Chapman, Sr., 82 of Huntington, WV went to be with his Lord on Saturday, April 22, 2017 at St. Mary’s Medical Center surrounded by those he loved most. His life will be celebrated on Thursday, April 27, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at Lewis Memorial Baptist Church with Pastor Tim Yates and Rev. Roger Adams officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until service begins at 7:00 p.m. Private family burial will take place in Herrenkohl Cemetery, Lesage, WV. He was born May 7, 1934 in Huntington, WV the son of the late, A.L. “Lon” and Letha May Clay Chapman. In addition to his parents Jerry was preceded in death by his son, Jerry Clay Chapman, Jr., his sisters, Theda James and Thelma Cook, and brothers, John, Bill, Ross and Bob Chapman.  Jerry served in the Navy for four years. Jerry retired from INCO where he pitched for their industrial league baseball team for many years.  Baseball was his passion - second only to serving the Lord. Jerry was youth director for many years at Highlawn Baptist Church.  During that time, countless young persons were introduced to the Lord.  Countless lives were changed.  Jerry was so proud of his youth group.  It was one his finest achievements. Jerry then served as Assistant Pastor at Highlawn Baptist Church until he was called to Open Door Baptist Church, where he served as Pastor for 39 years. Jerry loved his Lord and his family with all his heart. He is survived by his beloved wife, Zelphia Galena Gue Chapman, his loving daughter and son-in-law, Dana and Jeff Gibbs of Pittsburg, PA; his grandchildren whom he adored, Jeff (Renee) Gibbs, Emily Jean (Jay) Gaskins, and John Gibbs; his special great-grandson, Case Nolan Gaskins; a sister, Nada “Sis” Booth of South Point,Ohio and a host of nieces, nephews, teammates, special friends and church family. Jerry was adored for his strength, compassion and hospitality. He was respected as the patriarch by his family and friends.