Arline Hayes Chapman

Arline Hayes Chapman, born in 1938 in Shanghai, China, to Robert and Ruth Hayes, passed away in 2026. From her earliest years, she embraced the world around her with openness and curiosity, qualities that guided a life marked by service, leadership, and deep devotion to family and community.

Arline enjoyed a diverse and accomplished career. She served as a flight attendant with Eastern Airlines, where her grace and warmth touched countless passengers. She later brought her professionalism and integrity to public service, working as an administrative assistant in the Georgia House of Representatives and as an executive assistant in the Office of Attorney General Thurbert Baker. Her true calling emerged in civic leadership, where she served four years on the Porterdale City Council and then twelve distinguished years as Mayor. She led with compassion, wisdom, and an open door, always guided by her genuine love for her community.

She shared a loving marriage with Bob that, though it evolved over time, remained a cherished and enduring friendship. Together they created a family that remained central to her life. Arline treasured the annual family vacations to St. Simons Island, Georgia, a tradition that spanned more than thirty years. Those peaceful shores became the setting for laughter, togetherness, and countless memories, especially the joyful hours spent with her granddaughters.

An accomplished painter, Arline was a proud member of the Southern Heartland Art Gallery. Her artwork offered a quiet reflection of her thoughtful and creative spirit. Above all, she cherished her family. She is survived by her sons, Greg and Brian, and their wives, Sarah and Lisa, who brought her great joy. She was a devoted and adoring grandmother to Halen, Abby, Ava, and Joseph, who were the light of her life. Her warmth, laughter, and steadfast love will remain forever in the hearts of all who knew her.