Jesse Ray Chapman passed away Tuesday, June 3, 2015. He was born to Willie Edwards Chapman & Jesse Chapman who traveled to Providence, Rhode Island from North Carolina after their wedding. Jesse Ray was their first child born on August 26, 1933.

Jesse was followed by his eight siblings, all of whom attended Providence public schools. Jesse graduated from Hope High School and went on to attend the New England Conservatory in Boston, MA.

Jesse Ray Chapman had a broad background in international performance. He had comprehensive teaching experience at the high school level and in the area of private teaching (piano and voice). Jesse's extensive experience in varied cultural environments and systems requiring developed oral and written communication skills, performing skills, interpersonal skills and a broad knowledge of planning strategies was exceptional.

Jesse's education and professional training includes Graduate and Undergraduate degrees from the New England Conservatory in Boston. Graduate study at Boston University, Post Graduate Study at Columbia University in New York, Graduate degree from the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut, conducting at Berkshire Music Center, Berkshire, MA, piano study in Germany, vocal study in New York and a John Hay Fellowship at William's College, Williamsburg, MA.

Jesse's professional experience includes 25+ years conducting the Westhill High School Chamber singers on 12 international concert tours that included Poland, Romania, The Soviet Union, India, Egypt, London, China, Hong Kong, Spain, Portugal, France, Germany, Switzerland, and The Czech Republic.

Jesse conducted the Chamber singers in several performances at New York's Carnegie Hall. He conducted numerous festivals and music conventions that included the American Choral Directors Association Eastern Division and the Connecticut Music Educators Association.

Jesse held memberships in many professional organizations that include lifetime memberships with the American Choral Directors Association and the Connecticut Music Educators Association plus the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the Hosts of Palm Coast.

Jesse and Betty were married April 16, 1994, in Stamford, Connecticut. They came to Palm Coast in 1999 from Stamford when Jesse accepted the position of Director of Music and Fine Arts with the Palm Coast United Methodist Church where he served for 16 years. Under his direction and leadership, he formed the concert series. The series brought many fine artists to Palm Coast over the years. He served a growing church with beautiful music.

Jesse is survived by his wife Betty; his children Nicole Virgil and Justin Chapman; Grandchildren JT and Sarah Virgil; his sisters Pearl Chapman Jones, Laura Chapman Nurse, Pat Chapman McPherson, Ellen Chapman Ivery and Stella Chapman Gant and Brothers-in-Law; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will miss him terribly.

Memorial Service will be held Friday, June 12, 2015 at 10:30am at Palm Coast United Methodist Church, 5200 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast, FL. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are under the careful direction of Lohman Funeral Home Palm Coast.