James E. Chatman, 87, of Harrisburg, Arkansas departed this life Sunday, December 3, 2023, in St. Bernard Medical Center in Jonesboro, Arkansas. He was born September 11, 1936, in Wall Creek, Arkansas the son of James Elvis and Lydia (Black) Chatman, and they both have preceded him in death. James married Joan Powell on August 4, 1956, and they enjoyed 60 years of marriage before her passing in January 2017. He was also preceded by one daughter Phyllis Chatman Gray and son-in-law, Ranny E. Gray, one brother, Roger Chatman and sister, Linda Tims. James served 2 years in the United States Army and was a farm worker most of his adult life. He is a member of the First Baptist Church in Harrisburg, Arkansas. James enjoyed watching television, especially Westerns and spending time with family and friends. He is survived by two sons: Jimmy (Jana) Chatman of Batesville, Arkansas and Robert ‶Bobby″ (Twila) Chatman of Harrisburg, two brothers: Ronnie Chatman of Waldenburg, and Jimmy Chatman of Weiner, two sisters: Carol Chandler of Harrisburg and Sharon Miller of Jonesboro, several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation will be Wednesday ~ December 6, 2023, at Jackson’s Funeral Home Chapel from noon until service time. Funeral Service will begin at 1:00 P.M. with Grandson B. J. Chatman conducting service. Active pallbearers will be Eastin Gray, Luke Maddox, Bryan Maddox, Billy Maddox, Steve Eastin, and Paul Chapell. The interment will be in Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in Birdeye, Arkansas.
