Lonna Marie Chapman

Lonna Marie Clark Chapman, 84, of Valdosta, passed away on March 14, 2026, at South Georgia Medical Center, surrounded by her family.

Born on April 2, 1941, in Savannah, Georgia, Lonna was the only child of the late Joseph Fred Clark and Ella “Nell” Clark. She moved to Valdosta at the age of two, graduated from Valdosta High School, and later married Buddy Chapman. Together they shared 52 wonderful years of marriage before his passing, and she missed him dearly every day.

After the birth of their only child, April, Lonna devoted herself to being a homemaker, creating a warm and loving home through home-cooked meals, hand-sewn clothes, and a yard she tended with the same care she gave her family. Later in life she earned her real estate license and found great joy in her work, meeting new people and helping them find their dream homes. A longtime member of First Baptist Church, she spoke with the Lord daily and quietly supported countless charities with compassion and generosity.

Lonna had a special talent for making beauty from the smallest things, whether in her beloved garden or in the lives of those around her. Feisty and sometimes stubborn, she loved deeply and fully. She was a devoted daughter who cared for her mother every day in her final years, a loving wife and mother, and a doting grandmother whose proudest accomplishments were her grandchildren, who called her “Grand.” She treasured every moment with them and made sure they always knew how deeply they were loved.

She is survived by her daughter, April; son-in-law, Robin Wright, whom she claimed as her own and who cared for her with such compassion; her grandchildren, Lane and Ella Wright; bonus grandchildren, Kim Wright and Stephanie Hayes; and her beloved dog, Otis. For over a decade, Lonna faced serious health challenges with remarkable courage and determination, always fighting to remain present for the family she cherished. Her family is especially grateful for the devoted care provided by Kathy Hunter during the past year.

Lonna will be remembered for her strength, her spirited nature, and the extraordinary love she poured into her family. She leaves this earth with the comfort that she is now rejoicing with the Lord and reunited with her husband and parents.