Mabel L. Chapman, 84, of Pittsfield passed away December 26, 2009 at St. John’s Hospice in Springfield, IL.  Born February 13, 1925 in Pittsfield, she was a daughter to Robert A. and Mary Nickelson Shive and was one of thirteen children.  She married Arthur L. Chapman in Annapolis, MD on January 19, 1951 and he preceded her in death October 9, 2004.

Mabel was a telecommunicator for the United States Department of the Navy and Eastern Airlines, a child care provider to the Secret Service Agents and Astronauts and others.  She was a member of the Pittsfield United Methodist Church, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, Navy Wives Club, the Air Force Sergeant’s Association International Auxiliary and a Cub Scout Den Mother.  She enjoyed playing bingo, corresponding with friends and family and enjoyed bird watching especially Cardinals.  

Surviving are two children, Sandra L. Bonn of Springfield, IL and Art (Diane) Chapman Jr. of Lexington, KY, two grandchildren, Kristina and Daniel.  Four brothers survive, Richard “Dick” L. (Ethel) Shive of Winchester, IL; Joe (Mary Mae) Shive of White Hall, IL; John C. (Shirley) Shive of Virginia, IL and Jack F. (Janice) Shive of Galesburg, IL.  Also surviving are six sisters Vera Havens of Alsey, IL; Francis Giger of Pittsfield; Betty (Clifford) Wilder of Pittsfield; Alice (Duane) Guth of Gridley, IL; Jane (Harlan) Nevius of Peoria; Norma Jean (A.C.) Reel of Pittsfield, along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.  

Mabel was preceded in death by two brothers Bill and Tom Shive.  

Services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, January 2 at the Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield with Rev. Thomas Wilber officiating.  Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service. A lunch will be held at the home of Betty Ross Shive after the service.  As per Mabel’s wish cremation rites will be accorded after services with interment held at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the St. John’s Hospice Unit of Springfield, IL or the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be sent to the family at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .  Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield is handling the arrangements.