The world of journalism has lost a shining star with the passing of Don Chapman, a feature writer renowned for his humorous storytelling and keen insights. Chapman, who died at the age of 91, left an indelible mark on the pages of the Oxford Mail and in the hearts of his devoted readers.
A Talent for Amusement Discovered Early
Chapman’s wit was evident from a young age. As a mere seven-year-old, he caused his primary school teacher to burst into laughter with the closing line of a composition: “Then the giant picked me up and blew his nose on me!” This early display of humor foreshadowed the entertainer he would become.
Born in Oxford to a milliner mother and dental technician father, Chapman’s love for the stage was nurtured by the all-star variety bills his parents took him to at the New Theatre. Though he initially worked as a clerk at the Bodleian Library, his true calling emerged during his English studies at St Catherine’s College, where he began writing about theatre for the student newspaper, Cherwell.
Entertaining Oxford Mail Readers for Decades
After a brief stint at other local papers, Chapman returned to his roots, joining the Oxford Mail in 1959. For the next 35 years, he delighted readers with his daily column under the pseudonym Anthony Wood, a nod to the 17th-century antiquary. His theatre reviews, penned over three decades, showcased his lifelong passion for the stage.
Don had a gift for finding the humor in any situation. His writing could make you laugh out loud one moment and ponder life’s absurdities the next.
– A close colleague at the Oxford Mail
A Pillar of the Eynsham Community
Chapman’s influence extended beyond the printed page. After marrying Sue Macfarlane, a staff photographer at the Oxford Mail, in 1969, the couple settled in Eynsham, where Chapman became a pillar of the community. He co-founded the local Liberal Democrats branch and championed local planning issues, even garnering mentions in the Wall Street Journal for his campaign against the Swinford toll bridge.
Chronicling Theatre History and Fashion’s Evolution
Retirement didn’t slow Chapman down. He earned a doctorate from the University of Leicester for his comprehensive history of the Oxford Playhouse, published in 2008. His 2017 book, “Wearing the Trousers: Fashion, Freedom and the Rise of the Modern Woman,” explored the societal impact of women’s evolving fashion choices.
In 2022, Chapman shared his own story in the memoir “A Tenpenny Dip in Paradise,” offering readers a glimpse into the life experiences that shaped his inimitable voice.
A Legacy of Laughter and Insight
Don Chapman’s passing leaves a void in the world of journalism, but his legacy endures through the countless readers he entertained and enlightened over his illustrious career. His unique blend of humor, curiosity, and community engagement serves as an inspiration to aspiring writers and journalists alike.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take comfort in knowing that his words will continue to bring joy and provoke thought for generations to come. Don Chapman may be gone, but his spirit lives on in the laughter and insights he so generously shared with the world.
