Cathy Ann Chapman died March 4, 2025, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the age of 73 years 3 months 15 days. Funeral services were held Monday, March 10, 2025 at the Wadley’s Funeral Chapel. Interment followed at Lexington Cemetery, entrusted to the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.
Cathy was born November 20, 1951, in Lexington, Oklahoma, to Jess Ray and Ima Jean (Rollins) Kelley.
She grew up in the nurturing embrace of her hometown and proudly graduated from Lexington High School in 1970. Cathy was a proud member of the Lexington FFA and was one of the first girls allowed to take AG at Lexington. She enjoyed showing pigs and would on occasion bring a baby pig inside to sleep with her in bed.
Cathy’s thirst for knowledge led her to pursue higher education at the University of Oklahoma, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology. Her commitment to helping others propelled her to further her education at Rose State College, obtaining an Associate’s degree in Nursing, thus becoming a licensed Registered Nurse. Her career was marked by service and integrity, as she worked with the Department of Corrections and Pauls Valley Hospital before taking on the important role of Surveyor for the Oklahoma Department of Health.
On June 29, 1973, Cathy united in marriage with Eldon “Ray” Chapman, establishing a loving home in Lexington. Together, they cherished the joys of family life, welcoming their daughter, Holly. Tragically, their journey was marked by sorrow with Ray’s untimely passing on February 1, 1985, but Cathy remained a pillar of strength for her family.
Cathy had a passion for life that shone through her many interests. Whether she was cooking, baking, shopping, or engrossed in a good book, she always found joy in the simple pleasures. A particular favorite pastime was watching classic westerns, which brought her comfort and nostalgia. She and her daughter, Holly spent 20 years training and showing dogs in AKC conformation until her first granddaughter was born in 2008, owning many champions and award-winning dogs.
Above all, her heart was filled with love for her family, especially her grandchildren. She attended almost every school event for all three of her grandchildren. Her nurturing spirit extended not just to her family but also to those around her, always ready to lend a helping hand. Cathy’s affection for her fur baby, Pearl, was a testament to her love of animals.
Cathy is preceded in death by her parents, Jess and Ima Jean Kelley; and her husband, Ray.
Survivors include her daughter, Holly Edwards and husband, Rich; her grandchildren, Peyton Olivia Kelley Edwards, Collin Archer Edwards and Bryce Edwin Edwards; her aunts, Mary Lou Stewart and Norma Catlege; and numerous cousins and other relatives and friends.