Obituary of M. Idabelle Chapman

October 12, 1911 to January 8, 2016 - M. Idabelle (Phillips) Chapman, 104, a former resident of Woodstock, CT, died on January 8, 2016 at Pierce Memorial Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Born in Willimantic, CT, she was the daughter of the late Dwight and Hattie (Irons) Phillips. She was the loving wife of John H. Chapman for 62 years until his passing in January 2003. Idabelle graduated from Windham High and Bryant College. Her early career began with employment in her father's business, Phillips Brothers Grain Company and General Store at Hampton Station. After her marriage, she and her husband John, owned and operated Pinecroft Farms in Woodstock, CT. She was a highly competent office manager as well as a skilled truck driver. She was very proud of getting her class II driver’s license. Over many years she was actively involved with nearly all aspects of the farm. She did not retire until she was well into her 80’s. In addition she was a member of Farm Bureau and served as past president of the State of Connecticut. She also was a prior member of a local camera club and a member of the Grange. Mrs. Chapman was known for her lively spirit, abundant energy and her zest for life. She loved to travel with her husband and did so extensively throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. She especially enjoyed spending summers on Great Eastlake, NH. She was an accomplished cook, gardener and seamstress. She also loved her family and enjoyed time spent with them. All who loved her will miss her. Survivors include her son, John Chapman and his wife, Noreen of Woodstock CT, her daughter, Judith Joly and her husband, Lucien of Bloomfield, CT; her grandchildren, Jason Chapman (Angela) of South Windsor, CT, Dana Chapman of Woodstock, CT, Brett Joly (Teresa) of Branford, CT, Dr. Kyle Joly (Julie) of Fairbanks, AK, and Rebecca (Joly) and John Grounds of Washington, DC; eight great grandchildren; and she had the privilege of becoming a great great grandmother. She was predeceased by her daughter, Arlene Chapman. The family would like to express their enormous appreciation to all the staff at Pierce Memorial for their wonderful care. They also want to thank the staff at the Village at Waterman Lake Assisted Living Facility for her active and happy years with them. There are no calling hours. Private Burial at Quassett Cemetery in the Spring. Donations may be made in Idabelle’s memory to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Smith and Walker Funeral Home, 148 Grove Street, Putnam, CT. Share a memory at www.smithandwalkerfh.com.