Mary M. "Molly" Chapman Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Mary M. Chapman “Molly,” age 105, passed away on May 5, 2018 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio. Her oldest son, Erie, III (Chip) said, “She left this world the way she lived in it – with the aplomb of an elegant guest who quietly slips out the door, her pink gown flowing, her face wearing a soft smile. She was the essence of grace for so many – particularly for her loving family.” Mrs. Chapman was born in Elyria, Ohio on August 21, 1912 to Ellen and Ralph Murbach. She moved with her husband and family from Los Angeles to Toledo in 1955 and has remained a resident since that time. Molly was a 1934 graduate of Northwestern University where she received a bachelor’s degree in journalism. She advised her great grandchildren to “help the other person, not yourself.” Throughout her life she lived that advice, volunteering at the former Conlan Center and also at The Toledo Hospital for over 45 years. Molly’s life was a celebration of her family and friends. Her gracious demeanor and kind manner caused her to be loved and admired by all. She lived life in moderation. When asked about the secret of her longevity she would sometimes say, simply, “One foot in front of the other.” Another reason for her long life may have been the extraordinary support of her family – particularly her youngest daughter, Martha, who was her most constant caregiver in her mother’s last years. Mrs. Chapman loved classical music, cards, bird watching, the English language & rainy days. She also enjoyed word games including scrabble and crossword puzzles. Her passion for the game of bridge endured up to the time of her passing. Gardenias were her favorite flower even before they were used in her wedding in 1935 and she appreciated fine food including oysters, and her favorite dessert, the Inverness Junior Fudge Nut Ball. Mrs. Chapman was an avid golfer and the 18 hole Women’s Championship Trophy at Inverness Country Club is named in her honor. She also enjoyed bowling, and walked three miles every morning with her dear friend Patty Poll up until Molly sustained a fall at age 93. Molly was a longtime, dedicated member of Epworth United Methodist Church. She occupied a special seat in the last pew where she sat with her regular companion, her daughter Martha. She is survived by her loving children, Ann Debes of Grand Rapids, MI., Erie (Kirsten) Chapman, III of Nashville TN., Martha Chapman of Sylvania, John (Spike Ritter) Chapman of Longmont, Colorado; grandchildren, Susan, Meredith, Tyler and Tia; and ten great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by Erie her husband of sixty years who was former President of the Toledo YMCA (1955-1970), sisters Madge Wells & Ann Schmittgen, and brother John Murbach. Her family wishes to extend special thanks to Maryanne, Janet & Karen as well as to the staff of Woodlands and Sunset Village (including Tigus and Amanda) & Hospice of NW Ohio for the wonderful care that she received. Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the Epworth United Methodist Church Music Fund, The Furniture Ministry at Epworth or Hospice of Northwest Ohio. A memorial service celebrating Molly's life will be held 11:00am, Friday May 11, 2018 at Epworth United Methodist Church, 4855 Central Avenue, Toledo Ohio 43615, where friends are invited to visit after 10:00am.

Mary M. "Molly" Chapman

August 21, 1912 - May 5, 2018