Jerry Chapman, only 26 years young, became a real HERO on April 17, 2013. Jerry was a fun loving young man who lived life on the edge and to the fullest. He was a delight to anyone who met him. He had a servant’s heart and would go out of his way if he knew there was a need and do his best to find a way to meet it.
As a young man, Jerry attended AWANA club at Pampa Bible Church for 13 years. He came all the way through the program, which included learning the Word of God, actively serving in his church, and after high school graduation he went on a mission trip to Japan. After high school in 2005, Jerry chose to attend TSTC in Waco, and he received an associate of applied science degree on December 11, 2007, where he was on the dean’s honor roll.
Later, Jerry became involved with the Abbott Volunteer Fire Department. He became NIMS compliant in many areas and received many certifications that furthered his career as a firefighter. In October 2012, he received from the National Fire Academy, ICS-300: Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents for Operational First Responders and ICS-400: Advanced ICS for Command and General Staff, Complex Incidents and MACS for Operational First Responders.
In November 2012, Jerry was given a certificate marking one year of service to Hill County through the Hill County Firefighters Association, then began the EMT Course with West EMS. He was certified to administer CPR and AED, and the course was to conclude at the end of April 2013. As of April 15, 2013, he had passed his skills test and was near completion and ready for National Registry soon after.
Jerry’s desire was to become a helicopter EMT. Flying was on the agenda, but schooling was very expensive, so he was doing the things he needed to do to provide the income necessary and take the steps to further his dream and make it a reality.
While attending one of his EMT classes on April 17, 2013, a call came in for assistance at the West Fertilizer Plant, and Jerry responded as an Abbott volunteer firefighter. He was giving by serving and protecting others while fighting a battle that he soon lost, only to be with Jesus.
Now he is in Heaven, flying far above all the worries and trials this world has to offer.
Survivors are his parents, Dane and Rhonda Chapman of Hillsboro; his sister, Shay, and her husband, Justin Pohlmann; a niece, Chloe Rose; and a nephew, Micah Dane.
We have always been proud of our grandson. We are grateful for the memories we shared with him. We also are thankful for the servant’s heart he had for others. Even as an energetic child, he wanted to be the first to help those around him. We have heard from people all over the country who were surprised and blessed by his thoughtfulness. Popo and Momo
– Gerald Chapman