Ella was born in Camilla, Georgia. She was a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to many. She was a dedicated employee for over 30 years at the University of South Florida. She opened her doors for anyone in need. Her family was very important to her, and she made sure to keep in touch with them. Her personality was boisterous and strong-willed, she said what she meant, and meant what she said! She had a sense of humor and was a jokester who kept family members laughing. One of her favorite things to do was cruising, and she enjoyed for over 30 years prior to failing health; she went every year and it became a family affair. As a beloved and respected community member who loved God, she believed in her constant prayers. Her light was visible to all who met her.

She was preceded in death by her sons, Willie Frank Chapman, Jr., Oliver (Baby) Chapman, and Eric (Lababy) Chapman Sr; grandparents, Tom, Sr. and Hattie Dorn Blackshear and Ella Mae Johnson; brothers, Ernest Johnson, Willie D. Blackshear, Willie B. Blackshear and Roosevelt Blackshear, Sr.; sisters, Edith Lee Blackshear and Annie B. Blackshear; grandchildren, Benjamin Chapman, Jr., Adrian Chapman and Brandy M. Chapman.

She leaves to cherish her memories: sons, Jackie Chapman (Elizabeth), E. Charles Chapman (Sandra R.), Bruce Chapman (Sandra D.), and Benjamin Chapman (LaShawnda); daughter, Valerie Chapman; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Visitation
Friday, July 21, 2023
4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Aikens Funeral Home
2708 E Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
Tampa, FL 33610

Funeral Service
Saturday, July 22, 2023
1:30 PM
Aikens Funeral Home
2708 E Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
Tampa, FL 33610

Burial
Saturday, July 22, 2023
Rest Haven Memorial Park Cemetery
4615 E. Hanna Ave.
Tampa, FL 33610