Bettye Lou Chapman's Obituary
Bettye Lou Sudduth Chapman, a retired educator, passed away peacefully May 28, 2014. Bettye was the sixth of seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Charles Jackson Sudduth (Malinda Flowers Sudduth). She was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Upon graduation from Booker T. Washington High School, Bettye attended Langston University in Oklahoma.
After moving to California she attended Cal State East Bay (CSU Hayward, at that time), where she obtained a M.S. in School Counseling. Prior to becoming a middle school counselor, Bettye taught elementary school in the Oakland Unified School District.
An active member of the community, Bettye was very social. She was a member of the Oakland Bay Area chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc, an avid bridge player belonging to three bridge clubs, a participant in several bowling leagues, and enjoyed the outdoors. Most of all, she cherished spending quality time with her family. Known for her sweet and kind demeanor, Bettye always had a smile on her face. Always full of life, and laughs, she was a joy to be around.
Bettye is predeceased by her husband, Emerson L. Chapman, son, E. Brian Chapman, grandson Evan B. Chapman, two sisters, Vernell S. Pearson and Juanita S. Wilson, three brothers, Charles “Jack,” Joseph, and John Sudduth. Left to cherish her memory, her twin brother Robert “Brock” Sudduth (Evelyn), daughter, Linda Chapman Hall, granddaughter Bärà Williams (Jaime), great-grandson Gabriel L. Williams, and a host of extended family and friends.
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