Donnie Chapman Jr.

Celebrating the Life of Donnie Lee Chapman Jr. “Tank”

Donnie Lee Chapman Jr., affectionately known as “Tank,” was born and raised on Chicago’s South Side, in the heart of Englewood around 55th–57th Street. On August 13, 2026, at the age of 54, Donnie peacefully transitioned from this life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, loyalty, hard work, and countless memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Donnie was a man who wore many hats throughout his life. He was hardworking, dependable, skilled, and determined. Before becoming a designated CDL driver, he worked as a Building Code Inspector, HVAC Technician, and Contractor, building a career through dedication and perseverance.

Donnie later found his calling in trucking. As a Leased Owner-Operator with 4 D Trucking Logistics, he safely operated 53-foot Class A refrigerated and dry-van tractor-trailers on regional routes. He took pride in his work, maintained DOT/FMCSA compliance, and earned an excellent safety record. His commitment to doing things the right way was a reflection of the man he was.

But beyond his professional accomplishments, Donnie was known for his passion for sports. He could play just about any sport, but his love began with basketball and eventually blossomed into a deep love for softball. Over the years, Donnie became highly respected throughout the softball community.

He played with several teams, beginning with The Young Guns, where he held down right, left, and center field. He went on to play with The Salutions, the famous BTA 16-Inch, and the Old School Ballers 50 & Older team, continuing to play the game he loved until his transition.

Donnie’s talent, competitiveness, and love for the game helped him and his teams achieve National Championships and numerous other championships. But the trophies were only part of his softball legacy. Through the game, Donnie built extended families and lifelong friendships. He was loved and respected by teammates, opponents, and everyone who had the pleasure of sharing the field with him.

And if you knew Donnie, you knew that softball was about much more than playing ball. He loved cooking for everyone, feeding people, bringing people together, and spreading love. His generosity and big heart made gatherings special. Donnie was #2, but to so many people, he was number one in their hearts.

Most importantly, Donnie had a love for God from childhood. His faith was an important part of who he was, and that love remained with him throughout his life. He carried with him a spirit of love, fellowship, and connection that touched people from his family, his neighborhood, his workplaces, and the softball community.

Donnie was preceded in death by his beloved father, Donnie Lee Chapman Sr., and his brother, Donell Chapman.

He leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Brenda Chapman, and his siblings: Virginia Murray, Shabar, Allen, Vanessa Taylor Ellison, Durshon, Derrick, Dionne, and Booky. He also leaves behind extended family, cherished friends, teammates, and countless people whose lives were made better simply because they knew “Tank.”

Donnie’s life was a testament to perseverance, friendship, family, faith, and love. Though his time with us was not long enough, the impact he made will continue through every story told, every laugh remembered, every meal shared, every friendship formed, and every softball game where someone remembers the way #2 played.

Rest well, Tank.

Your work here is done, but your legacy will continue.

Your family will remember you.

Your teammates will remember you.

Your friends will remember you.

And everyone who loved you will carry a piece of you forever.

Until we meet again, Donnie “Tank” Lee Chapman Jr. — you will be deeply missed and forever loved.