09/01/2026
Funeral services for Major General (Retired) James Walter Chapman will begin at 10:30 am on Wednesday, September 02, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of Newton. Military graveside honors will follow in the Newton County Memorial Gardens. Newton County Funeral Home - North, 9998 Eastside Dr. Ext., Newton, is in charge of arrangements.
Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at the funeral home on Tuesday, September 01, 2026 and one hour prior to the services on Wednesday at the church.
Major General (Retired) James Walter Chapman, 91, passed from this life on August 30, 2026, in Newton, Mississippi. Born September 21, 1934, in Meridian, Mississippi, he was the son of the late James David and Katherine Myers Chapman. He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Betty Nell Montague Chapman; his daughter, Lynne Kenna (Joey) of Forest, MS and son, Clay Chapman (Susan) of Hickory, MS.
He was affectionally called "Pop" to four grandchildren, Drew Kenna (Kery), of Forest, MS, Ben Kenna of Charlotte, NC, Haley Justice (Robert) of Meridian, MS, and Kelly McQueen (Dylan) of Lake, MS and six great-grandchildren.
General Chapman graduated from Newton High School in May 1952 and entered Mississippi State University where he made many lasting friendships in Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He majored in accounting and received his Bachelor of Science degree in 1956, as well as his commission in the United States Air Force, having ROTC training.
His military career consisted of being qualified as a Master Navigator with 6,836 hours flying time in 8 different aircraft.
Following active duty in the USAF, the General joined the Mississippi Air National Guard where he rose to becoming the Group Commander of the 172nd Tactical Airlift Group, Jackson, Mississippi, and was later selected to be the Chief of Staff, Headquarters, Mississippi Air National Guard. He was promoted to and federally recognized as a Major General in May 1996.
General Chapman also loved his community and served it well as President of the Newton Rotary Club, Newton Chamber of Commerce, Newton Country Club as well as serving in other leadership roles. He was owner of Mid-State Supply, Inc., an automotive and industrial supply business, until his retirement.
As a longtime, devoted member of Newton's First Baptist Church, he served in many capacities through the years. He especially loved his Yokefellows Sunday School class and continued to enjoy the lessons brought to him when he was unable to attend in person.
Rev. Chris Spence and Dr. Brian Rushing will officiate.
Pallbearers will be Bob Douglas, David Edwards, Bill Freeman, Ronnie Page, Andy Rowzee, Mike Strebeck, Carl Walters and Tommy Williams.
Honorary pallbearers will be the Yokefellows Sunday School Class.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
An online guestbook may be viewed and signed at www.newtoncountyfuneralhome.com
