Shirley Doss Bell Chapman, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and sister, passed away on Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Born on Jan. 27, 1936, in Sweet Springs, WV, she lived a life defined by love, compassion, and unwavering devotion to her family.
Shirley was a hardworking and dedicated woman throughout her life. She devoted 24 years of service to the Andrew S. Rowan Memorial Home, where she was known for her reliability and care for others. Later, she continued her commitment to public service as a clerk with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department before retiring. Her strong work ethic reflected her deep sense of responsibility and perseverance.
Despite her many years of service, Shirley’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was raising her five children. As a single mother for many years, she worked tirelessly to provide for her family and give her children everything she could – love, stability, and support. Her sacrifices and strength shaped generations.
Shirley treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren, and extended family. With her infectiously fun-loving and caring personality, she had a remarkable ability to leave people smiling. Her genuine warmth and kindness touched the lives of countless individuals and will be remembered by all who knew her.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, George Chapman; her parents, Emory and Sadie Huffman Doss; and her brothers, Beryl Huffman and Tom Doss. She is survived by her five children: Charles Bell Jr. (Anna), Karen Bell Alabran (Walter), Lester Bell (Sue), Patricia Bell (Gary Humphreys), and Cynthia Bell Jones (Frank Mateo); her nine grandchildren, Deric Bell, Stephanie Estep, Kristina Bell, Dustin Bell, Craig Bell, Lindsay Frazee, Brittanie Atencia, Jonathan Alabran, and Dulce Mateo; her twenty great-grandchildren; and her two great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Jean Atkins, Norma Hundley, and Elizabeth Baker, as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who loved her deeply.
Shirley will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her caring nature, resilience, and positive outlook on life left an indelible mark on those she loved. As we bid farewell to a remarkable woman who graced this world with kindness, may we carry forward her spirit of love and compassion as a testament to her enduring legacy.
To honor the memory of Shirley Doss Bell Chapman, a visitation will be held at Groves-Mann Funeral Home in Union, WV, on Tuesday, Feb. 3, from 6 until 8 p.m. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 4, at the funeral home, with Pastor Philip Hunt officiating. Burial will follow in Greenbrier Memorial Gardens in Lewisburg, WV.
Those wishing to send online condolences or would like to sign the online guestbook, please do so by visiting www.grovesmann.com.
Arrangements by Groves-Mann Funeral Home, Union, WV.
