Lillian Elaine Chapman Peay

Mrs. Lillian Elaine Wright Chapman-Peay was born May 2, 1942, in Wedgefield, South Carolina, to the late James “Ham” Wright and Mattie Louise Jones Wright.

Elaine began her formal education in Sumter, South Carolina public schools and graduated from Ebenezer High School in 1959. He continued her education in New York, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the College of New Rochelle. Elaine devoted her life to education, serving as an educator in the public schools of New York before returning to South Carolina, where she continued her teaching career until her retirement in 2009.

At an early age, Elaine accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and became a faithful member of the Orange Hill AME Church. Throughout her years of service, she served in many capacities, including Church Secretary, President of the Lay Organization, Church Steward for more than twenty-five (25) years, and Finance Chairperson. Her commitment to God and the church was evident through her faithful service and dedication to others.

Elaine was also a member of Manchester Chapter #152, Order of the Eastern Star, where she served as Past Associate Matron.

Beyond her professional and church service, Elaine had a deep love for plants and gardening. She enjoyed birdwatching, was an avid reader, and had a passion for writing. She also authored a book, leaving yet another part of her legacy for others to cherish.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, James “Ham” Wright and Mattie Louise Wright; her daughter, Michelle Chapman; Michelle’s father, Warren Chapman; her husband, Robert “Bob” Peay; her brother, Eddie Joe Wright; her nephew, Dwayne Wright.

On Friday, September 25, 2026, Elaine peacefully departed this earthly life, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and cherished memories.

Elaine leaves to cherish her precious memories her daughter, Linda McCovins (Ricky); son, Gary Chapman; and Faith Chapman, who is a beloved part of the family.

She is also survived by her grandchildren, Coco, Rickey, Jr., Ashton, Imani, and Najja; great-grandchildren, Iyanna, Charles, Kortnie, and Jackson; special cousins, Evelyn, Lucille, and Geri; sister-in-law, Louise Wright; nieces, Jackie, Terri, and Valorie; nephew, Bruce; and very special grandniece, Dana. She also leaves a host of other relatives, friends, and loved ones who will forever cherish her memory.

Elaine’s life was a testimony of faith, service, love and perseverance. Through her years as an educator, her faithful church service, and her love for family and friends, she touched many lives and left an enduring legacy.

Though she will be deeply missed, those who loved Elaine can find comfort in knowing that her earthly journey is complete. Her legacy of faith, love, service, and cherished memories will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.