Wednesday, January 22, 2025 9:03 am

Debra "Debi" Lee Chapman, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and community advocate, passed away January 3, 2025. She was 72 years old.

A woman of diverse passions and boundless energy, Debi's journey took her from her birthplace in Connecticut to Florida in her youth, before establishing her adult life in Lakeside, California, and finally retiring in Rutherfordton, NC.

Her greatest joy was found in the company of her family, including her husband, Marvin Chapman Jr.

Debi's legacy lives on through her children: daughter Sandi, son Joe, and stepson Jared; her daughters-in-law Melissa and Tamera; and her grandchildren: Katelyn, Bella, Johnny, Corey, JJ, Brylan, and Chase. A few years back, she learned that she comes from a large and loving family, and memories of her will be carried on through all the Spector's and Dumas's.

Debi excelled as an automotive service advisor. As the founder of P.A.C.E. (Preventing Abuse through Community Education), formerly known as R.A.D. (Racers Against Drugs), she channeled her passion for racing into meaningful social change.

A Family Directed Celebration of Life service will be held Friday, February 7 at 1PM at Calvary Baptist Church, 224 Chimney Rock Rd., Rutherfordton.

Online condolences may be made at www.crowemortuary.com.