Teresa Smith
I grew up calling him Unca Paul, I will miss his many messages. Rest in Peace
Birth date: Jun 7, 1953 Death date: Mar 25, 2026
Paul Edward Chapman, born on June 7, 1953, in Lake Wales, Florida, passed away on March 25, 2026, in Lakeland, Florida, at the age of 72. A lifelong resident of Florida, Paul graduated from Lakeland Sr High School and went on to d Read Obituary
CARED FOR BY
Gentry-Morrison Funeral Homes - Serenity Gardens Chapel
3350 Mall Hill Drive, Lakeland FL 33810
I grew up calling him Unca Paul, I will miss his many messages. Rest in Peace
Saying goodbye to my dad is the hardest thing I've ever had to do. He was more than a father-he was my protector, my teacher, and my steady place in an ever-changing world. He had a way of making even the simplest moments feel special, and his presence brought comfort and strength to those around him. From his daily txt messages of songs relating to my location in the country to phone calls when it was a full moon, he'd say "Karla Rae, my beautiful daughter, its a full moon, its time for a visit".
I miss you so much already.
He loved the beach, where he could take in the beauty of both sunrises and sunsets with sand in his toes and quiet moments that reflected the peace and warmth he carried within him. His love was constant, his heart was huge, and his impact on our lives will never fade.
I will miss his voice, his advice, and the way he always knew how to make things better. Though he is no longer here with us, his love will guide me for the rest of my life.
I love you, Dad. Always and Forever
Rest in peace my dear friend!
Please watch over and help heal your beautiful daughter Karla.
I’m glad we had the chance to reconnect nine years ago and remain friends.
Paul and I have been friends for over fifty five years. We have been through a lot of changes in our lives, but always were there for each other. We have an interesting history as teenagers, and we reconnected years later to remain friends throughout our lifetime. Paul was a generous, giving person who always thought of others before himself. We both loved our dogs and often went to dog park or taking them for a ride around Lake Hollingsworth. We'd go out to Tapatios for lunch and the Brunch box for breakfast. Sometimes , we'd just sit on the couch and watch Jeopardy. Paul was very smart, and often got the answers right. I'm going to miss that man very much. Love ya Paul. RIP my friend. We'll see each other again one day. Sande

Fly free....tell granny and everyone else hello for me! Love you!

I Love you Dad and miss you terribly already!


Paul was truly one of a kind. A man who could make you laugh when you needed it most, who carried wisdom from a life well lived, and who would give the shirt off his back to help anyone in need.
He lived boldly, loved deeply, and never did anything halfway. Paul brought energy and heart into everything he did.
Above all, he loved his family. That love is what will carry on through his daughter, his grandchildren, and everyone lucky enough to know him.
Paul, your stories, your laughter, and your spirit will never be forgotten. Thank you for the memories, the lessons, and the love you gave so freely.
Rest easy ….. you will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Love your “handsome son in law”
Matteo