Lawrence E. Chatman, Sr.
A Godly life ended February 28, 2011 when Lawrence Edward Chatman Sr. known to many as “Automan” and “Chit-Chat”, was taken from labor to reward.
Our hearts are filled with sorrow, but we realize that this home going is the greatest experience of our beloved life, which was filled with wonderful experiences as he was and remains a Saved and God fearing Father, Grandfather, Friend, Coach, Confidant and Teacher. We know that he is at peace and resting with our Heavenly Father.
Born to the late Leroy Chatman Sr. and Irene Woods Chatman, on April 17, 1953 in Clinton (Custer County), Oklahoma. Lawrence was the fifth of ten children: Doris Narciss and Edna Chatman both of Midway City, OK, Leroy Chatman and Wilbur Chatman both of Norfolk, Larry Chatman of Oklahoma City, OK, Garry Chatman of Newport News, Alvin Chatman of Clinton, OK, Clifford Chatman and Robert Chatman both of Oklahoma City, OK.
Clinton is where he spent his childhood years learning the Works of the Lord and the meanings of Family, Love, Hard Work and Dedication. Lawrence was educated at Clinton High School where his passion for sports, specifically football (#80) bloomed setting personal, school and district records leading his school to a number of championships. During this time in high school, Lawrence received Honorable Awards (Defensive Player of the Week, Top Defensive Player, 3 time All District Player) and a host of recognitions for his dedication not only to sports but his academics as well.
December 29, 1971, he joined the United States Navy as an Electrical/Mechanical Repairman, being stationed here in Norfolk, VA. Although away from home his love for life, passion and dedication to setting goals and achieving them remained with him. EN2 Chatman continued to succeed receiving Letters of Appreciation, various awards and decorations to include the National Defense Service Medal.
December 22, 1975 Lawrence was Honorably Discharged from the United States Navy as an E5 and began his career as a Civil Serviceman working in Supply at the Naval Supply Center in Norfolk, VA.
Continuing on with his teaching from home, Lawrence rededicated his life to Christ and began to seek knowledge, wisdom and understanding through him. Finding time to read and partake in service from time to time. However, shall he have missed a service you’d find him listening to live and pre recorded sermons on the radio.
October 25, 1983 Lawrence graduated from the Automotive Training Institute in Virginia Beach, VA where he continued to excel in his automotive trade receiving certifications and accreditations in various areas.
To date “Automan” as many have known him, has been as he would say “working on cars” for over 40 years beginning in his junior year at Clinton High School. A business owner for many years, “Automan” believed in completing a full days work and nights too. On call for not just most, but all who would seek his advice.
Lawrence Edward Chatman Sr. was predeceased by his father, Leroy Chatman Sr. and leaves to cherish his memory, his mother, Mrs. Irene Chatman; life long partner of 34 years, Ms. Elsie White; children, LaTersa Chatman (Mother, Teresa King), Rashard Chatman, Shavon Chatman, LaToisha Chatman, Lawrence Chatman, Jr., Leroy Chatman, Marquiz “Donte” Chatman, Demetriz “Meatman” Chatman, Irene Chatman, Algerita Chatman, Deloris Washington, Ronald White and Sherley White; twenty grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; brother in love, Randolph “Chief Mac” McClary; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-law, other relatives and friends.
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