Obituary of Gaetana Chapman

Gaetana “Gay” Chapman (née Pampalone), age 82, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2024, at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville, NJ. Gay’s life was one of love, generosity, and devotion to her family, community, and friends. Her presence will be missed, but her warmth, laughter, and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Born in Newark, NJ, on October 11, 1942, Gay grew up in Irvington and West Orange before settling in Mine Hill, NJ, for almost 50 years. In 2018, she moved to Mt. Arlington, NJ, where she continued to share her thoughtfulness and love with everyone around her.

Gay was the beloved wife of Robert S. Chapman, who predeceased her in 2010. Together, they raised three children: Michael R. Chapman, married to Sharon Davino Chapman; Jeannine M. Chapman; and Kyle R. Chapman, married to Tara Marante Chapman. She was the proud grandmother of four grandchildren: Madison and Justin, children of Michael and Sharon; Matthew, son of Jeannine; and Sierra, daughter of Kyle and Tara. Gay is also survived by her sister, Roseann Dolan; her brother-in-law, Roger Dolan; her three nephews and nieces, Roger, Keith, and Stacey; and their children, as well as many extended family members and friends.

Throughout her life, Gay worked in a variety of roles, including insurance, as a paraprofessional, a bank teller, a salesperson, and finally a bookkeeper for Structural Stone and Brick in Fairfield, NJ. She was always ready to help, whether at work or in her personal life. Gay was deeply involved in her community. She served on the PTA in Mine Hill, NJ, where she organized events like the annual craft fair and coordinated hot lunches for students. Gay’s commitment to her community extended further as she served on the Mine Hill School District Board of Education, where she helped with a successful addition to Canfield Avenue School.

Outside of her work and community service, Gay had a deep passion for life’s simple pleasures. She was a kind and generous woman who loved to bake and decorate, often combining the two to create delicious and beautiful treats. Gay’s love for the holidays, especially Christmas, was evident in everything she did—from the festive decorations she meticulously put up to the special holiday treats she baked for her family and friends. Her holiday spirit and attention to detail made those times of year even more magical for her loved ones.

Gay also enjoyed reading, shopping, and traveling, but above all, she cherished the time spent with her family and friends. Whether it was gathering around the table for a meal, embarking on a new adventure, or simply sharing a quiet moment, Gay’s zest for life shone through. Her warmth, sense of humor, and selfless love made her a beloved figure in the lives of those she knew.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Tuttle Funeral Home, 272 Route 10 West, Randolph, NJ. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 425 W. Blackwell St., Wharton, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Gay’s memory to three organizations that were close to her heart: St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Market Street Mission, and Meals on Wheels.

Gay’s legacy of love, laughter, and selflessness will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.