James Albert Chapin Jr.

With great sadness, we lost a good man, James Albert Chapin, Jr. He was 95 years old.

On Saturday, October 27, 2018, James - as he was affectionally called, passed peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving caregiver. Per his wishes, James asked that he pass at the comforts of his home.

The only son of the late Ina Thompson Chapin and James Albert Chapin, James was born in Oakland, CA and moved to Alameda as a toddler. His parents started The Chapin Stationary Store, the first of its kind in Alameda that spanned over 70 years. After his parents passed, James continued to manage the store, with the help of Nancy Anderson, the store accountant. People often labeled the store as the ‘white lady’s store, because most of the employees and clientele had white hair! Due to a lot of competition in the business world, James and Nance decided to retire and closed the store in 1986.

After graduating from Alameda High School, James enlisted in the Army and was stationed in Europe and the Philippines. As a World War II Veteran, James loved travelling and traveled the world. He had a passion for Golf and Photography and was an avid member of the Elks Club for many years.

James is survived by his only cousin, Ron Jones (and wife Teri) of Reno, Nevada, his caregiver of 23 years, Rodrigo Emperador and Elenita Vicentio & Allan Cruz, his caregivers for 13 years.


Family and friends are invited to attend the funeral services in honor of James. Visitation will take place on Friday, November 2nd from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with the Vigil Service at 7:00 p.m. at Greer Family Mortuary and Cremation Services. The Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, November 3rd at 10:00 a.m. at St. Philip Neri Church. James will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery.

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