Obituary of Catherine Margaret Chapman

CATHERINE DUNSWORTH CHAPMAN
(July 30, 1950 - November 13, 2025)

It is with profound sadness that we, Catherine’s family, announce her passing on November 13, 2025 at the QE 11 Health Sciences Center. Catherine had been dealing with cancer since early 2022 with a strong, positive and determined outlook. Many times Catherine expressed that she was so very content with her life and she continued to enjoy and share each and every day with her loved ones and friends.

Catherine was born in Halifax, a daughter of Peter and Margaret Dunsworth (McSweeney), deceased. Catherine was also pre-deceased by former spouses, Robert A. O’Neil and Michael G. Johnson. Catherine remained very close with her brothers and sister and will be lovingly remembered by Peter Dunsworth (Ann), Michael Dunsworth, James Dunsworth (Jill) and Sherry Dunsworth Meyer (Jamie). Catherine is survived by her husband, Ken B. Chapman, her precious sons Peter Fraser (Monique), East Chester, Christopher O’Neil, Hubbards, and Michael O’Neil (Allegra), Toronto. Catherine is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Bear O’Neil, Persephone O’Neil and Charlie O’Neil.  Catherine is survived by six step children and their families. They are Wendy Johnson, Steven Johnson, Scott Johnson, Debbie Johnson (Emberley), Gayle Chapman MacLean and Ross Chapman. Also surviving are sisters in law Nora Johnson Meagher, Toronto, Eleanor Chapman Wilson and Frances Chapman Smith, both of Scotland. Catherine was also very close to and loved by her many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Catherine attended St. Patrick’s High School and received her B.A., B.Ed, M.Ed and MASP from Mount Saint Vincent University where, for several years, she was a part time lecturer in Graduate Psychology, a position she thoroughly enjoyed. Her career in education was with the former Halifax County School Board and post amalgamation, Halifax Regional School Board. She held positions as teacher, Resource teacher, School Psychologist and a Supervisor of Student Services (Special Education). She often remarked that she was amazed that she got a pay check for something she loved so much.  She had so many wonderful memories, some hilarious, of fellow staff, children and parents she was engaged with over the years.  Catherine had a terrific sense of humor and believed there was little in life better than a good laugh. She thoroughly enjoyed music, dancing and hosting gatherings. She wanted it known, that she had an absolutely wonderful life and will be eternally grateful to all who touched her life.  

As Catherine wished, her body has been cremated. There will be a Celebration of Catherine’s Life on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at J. Albert Walker Funeral Home, 149 Herring Cove Rd, Halifax, NS. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society on Catherine’s behalf.