Gerald Joseph Chapman, born on October 9, 1946, in Ville Platte, Louisiana, was the beloved son of Atenis Chapman and Helen Pitre. He was a loving husband, brother, dad, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose kind and gentle soul touched the lives of all who knew him.

Gerald enjoyed the simple blessings of life and the company of family and friends. He loved country music, hunting, camping, cooking, spending time outdoors, gardening with his green thumb, and cheering for the New Orleans Saints and LSU. He also enjoyed drinking beer, barbecuing with family and friends, and gathering in fellowship at St. Peter's Catholic Church. Known as a jokester, a peacemaker, and a giving person, Gerald brought laughter, comfort, and kindness wherever he went.

Above all, Gerald cherished his family. His memory will live on through the love he shared, the stories he told, and the many lives he blessed with his generous heart.

Gerald is survived by his beloved wife, Marie Linda Chapman; his children, Amanda Lynette Ortego and husband Todd, Nicole Renee Janot and husband Lee, and Billy James Chapman and wife Danaille; his grandchildren, Courtney, Colby, DeAnna, Taguila, Tyler, Austin, and Serria; his great-grandchildren, Magnolia, Asher, Amelia, Emma, Aiden, and Adelynn.

He is also survived by his siblings, Lionel Chapman and wife Barbara Sue, Barbara Ann Lafleur, Nettie Darbonne, Vicky Savoy and fiancé Robert Lash, Ricky Chapman and wife Justine, along with many family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Atenis Chapman and Helen Pitre, and two siblings, Geraldine Hebert and Raylin Chapman.

Family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Friday, July 31st, 2026, with a Rosay at 6:00 p.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church, 1309 1st Street, Pine Prairie, Louisiana. Visitation will resume Saturday, August 1st, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. with a Mass of Christian burial at 10:00 a.m. Father Casey Dugas will be officiating. Interment will follow in the St. Peter's Cemetery, 1507 Hampton Dupre Road, Pine Prairie, Louisiana.