Jason Chapman

How do you write a novel when only half the story is known?

 With love for the history already penned. With sadness for what is missing.

 Jason Christian Chapman passed away the morning of Nov. 23, 2024 — his story ending all too abruptly with many chapters that will never be written. But, instead of mourning what cannot be finished, we look back with gratitude for who he was and what he accomplished in this life.

 Jason was incredibly smart and retained the kind of knowledge that would have made him a multiday “Jeopardy!” champion. He won many a night playing from home.

 Jason was extremely handy, always happy to assist others. Pet-sitting, offering a meal, installing floors or remodeling a bathroom — and if he didn’t know how to do it, he learned. Many people have him to thank for a lasting home improvement project.

 Jason was genuinely kind-hearted, a trait he displayed through everyday gestures. Just one of the many examples: While working his full-time job, he noticed contractors had no place to sit while they waited on their orders. That night, he built a bench for them using spare wood he had. A bench they still use today.

 Jason was uncommonly quick-witted, possessing a sharp sense of humor and (at times) a sharper tongue. He laughed often and made others laugh with ease. Even if we all at times were on the other end of the good-natured punchline.

 Jason was naturally at home on the water, whether it was the beach, the ocean, or the river. It did not matter if it was an easy cruise along the Intracoastal or a fishing excursion in the Florida Keys, he loved boating. And he loved sharing the experience with people, always a welcoming captain.

 Jason adored the dogs in his life, now taking care of the ones we cherished through the years. He connected with such a wide range of music and marched to the beat of his own drum. And he was an avid poker player who won his share of hands, despite the last one he was dealt. 

 Jason was Jason. If you knew him, you loved him. His epilogue could read simply that.

 He is survived by his parents, Dewey and Nancy; his brother, Dave; his beloved dogs, Cee Cee and Rudy, who remain at home; and extended family and friends, all of whom were the characters that added to his story.

 We already miss him dearly — we always will.

 A memorial service will be held 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Dolphin Plaza in Hanna Park (500 Wonderwood Drive, Jacksonville, Fla., 32233. Please email Dave (dac.chapman@gmail.com) in advance to secure a complementary parking pass. 

 In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Jacksonville Humane Society, spend time on the water, or fire up your favorite playlist. 

 Jason would have approved of all those ways to remember him.