We extend our condolences to the family and friends of Shirley Joan Chapin, who died on September 20, 2018, at the age of 82.  Joan is survived by her husband John, four children, and six grandchildren. 

Joan and John were both very active in the United Methodist community beginning with their local church teaching Junior High Sunday School and leading the Junior High Youth Fellowship. Joan went on to work with the Board of Missions giving her the opportunity to travel to many countries. She taught the Cuba Mission Study in the Detroit and West Michigan Conferences, served with the United Methodist Women as their District Spiritual Growth Leader, Director of Women’s Division and President. Joan also held positions with the General Board of Global Ministries as Director, Vice-Chair of the Personnel Committee, and Chair of the Deaconess and Home Missionary Committee.  She was a member of the District and Conference Boards of Church and Society and Chair of the Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns committee for the Detroit Conference.  Joan also received the Peace with Justice Award in 1999 and the Blessed Are the Peacemakers Award in 2004 given on behalf of the World Council of Churches.  

Visitation will be held at Caro United Methodist Church on October 28th from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A memorial service and celebration of Joan’s life will be held on October 29th at 11:00 AM in the Caro United Methodist Church.  A luncheon will follow in the fellowship hall.   

In lieu of flowers, Joan requested that memorials be made to the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) or to the Memorial Gardens at the Caro United Methodist Church, 670 W Gilford Rd., Caro, MI 48723.

Condolences can be sent to:
John Chapin
1566 Maplewood Dr.
Caro, MI 48723

Last Updated on October 24, 2018