Gary A. Chapman

Stratham- Lifelong seacoast NH resident Gary Adelbert Chapman, 81, passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at Cornerstone at Hampton. Born in Portsmouth, NH on December 30, 1942 to Earl and Selma (Tuttle) Chapman, he was the middle child of three siblings. Since the passing of his sister Karen Frye in 2011, Gary and his sister Roxy Hartman’s bond strengthened to an unmatched love, often speaking on the phone multiple times a day. Gary grew up surrounded by the beauty of the seacoast, developing a lifelong affinity for the beach, earning himself the nickname “King of the Beach”. In the summer months, he could be found at Pirate’s Cove in Rye, NH sunning himself and making conversation with anyone who was fortunate enough to walk by his beach chair. In the colder months, he was usually deer hunting with family and friends — and later in life with his son, Lindsay. Gary graduated from Portsmouth High School in 1960 and was heavily involved in planning class reunions, most recently attending his 60-year reunion. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and then went on to teach aviation lessons to students in Reno, NV. A proud Freemason since 1971 via St. John’s Lodge, he earned his 50-year Veteran’s Medal in 2021. He later owned and operated Gary’s Sandwich Shop in Kittery, ME for 25+ years, working alongside his sister Roxy and becoming a local fixture famous for his delicious subs and soups. During this time, he bought a new Corvette every two years…until 1979 when his first child was born. He hung onto the ‘79 Corvette until 2018. As a Rye resident, he was active in the community and served for many years on the Rye Budget Committee. Gary was a man of profound love and devotion to his family. Although his marriage to Diane (Lynch) Chapman ended 10 years ago, they remained best friends who talked on the phone daily and visited each other regularly. Throughout their marriage, they visited Aruba annually, becoming beloved regulars at their favorite resort. Later, even after their divorce, Gary and Diane continued to vacation in Aruba together with their children and their families. As a father, Gary was a source of wisdom, guidance, support, and unconditional love. He instilled in Kim and Lindsay the values of integrity, resilience, and compassion, shaping the individuals they are today. His granddaughters Addison and Elliott were the light of his life, and he simply adored them. Being a father and grandfather were his greatest joys. Gary’s circle of influence was immense. He was often referred to as “The Mayor”, making everyone in his path feel special and heard — from the Little League, Seacoast United, and Plymouth State University fields, to the Rye beaches, road races, and everywhere in between. His spirit, genuine interest in those around him, and unwavering kindness have left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. He will be so deeply missed. Visiting hours will be held at Remick and Gendron Funeral Home- Crematory in Hampton, NH on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., where family and friends are invited to gather and honor Gary’s memory. A brief service will be held at the funeral home at noon. Immediate family will later gather at the NH State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen, NH where Gary will be laid to rest with military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be mailed to the Cornerstone at Hampton Associate Holiday Fund in his honor. Anyone wishing to donate can mail checks to 298 Exeter Road, Hampton, NH 03842 with “Associate Holiday Fund” or “Gary” in the note. Rest in peace, Brother Gary. May you forever be on a beach working on your tan.

Gary A. Chapman

December 30, 1942 - June 2, 2024