Londonderry - Londonderry - Paul William ("Chappie") Chapman, age 90, passed peacefully at home in the presence of his family on the afternoon of July 18, 2025, in Londonderry, NH.

Paul was born on November 16, 1934, in West Lebanon, NH, to William and Doris (Phillips) Chapman. He grew up in Montpelier, VT, where he enjoyed working in his father's auto repair business, taking photos and developing them in the darkroom he built, building model airplanes, hunting with his dad, progressing through the Boy Scouts, and competing on Montpelier High School's ski team. He graduated with the Class of 1952.

After graduating from Tufts University with a BS in Electrical Engineering, he started a 43-year-long career with the U.S. Navy. Among his tours of duty, he served as an officer on the USS Iowa, the USS Wisconsin, the USS Samuel Roberts, and at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard as the commanding officer while in the Reserves.

While attending Tufts University, Paul met and married his eternal companion, Arvilla Elizabeth Bray. They were married on May 30, 1957, by the USS Samuel Roberts' chaplain in the Naval Station Newport Rhode Island chapel. After his transfer from active duty to the Naval Reserves, they moved to Springfield, VT. Later, Paul, Arvilla, and two daughters moved to Peterborough, NH. Following the birth of their eldest son, they moved to Derry, NH, where their youngest son was adopted into the family. Nine years ago, Paul and Arvilla moved to Connect55+ in Londonderry, and recently to All American Assisted Living next door.

Paul started working as an engineer, moving up through the ranks into management. During the course of his professional career, he also received his MBA from Northeastern University. He finally retired at age 84 from Granite State Manufacturing in Manchester, NH. He was a faithful member and leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving as a committed Home Teacher, Bishop, Facilities Manager, and High Councilman, among other callings.

Paul had a big heart. He loved serving and looking after his fellow man. He taught his children to love and protect the land and their country as stewards and patriots. He shared his hobby of model trains with his grandchildren and encouraged them to develop their talents and to become lifelong learners. Although not always in tune, he would often burst out in song wholeheartedly. He was also known to pound out a favorite melody on the piano and loved to play his harmonica. He was patient and kind, encouraging others with a smile.

Paul is survived by his sweetheart of 68 years, Arvilla, and his sister, Priscilla Belanger of Wasilla, AK. In addition, he leaves behind his four children and their families: Arvilla and her husband, Mark; Lucinda and her husband, Kerry; Caleb and his wife, Tommie; and Enoch. In addition, Paul has eleven grandchildren, their spouses, and three great-grandchildren, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. on August 23, 2025, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 50 Adams Pond Road, Derry, NH. Please, no flowers or heavy perfumes due to family allergies and sensitivities. Memorial donations to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.