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Vivian Naomi Chisman, 69, dedicated her life to caring for others

Vivian Naomi Chisman
Vivian Naomi Chisman

NEWPORT NEWS — Angels were sent to welcome home Vivian Naomi Chisman, 69, on Sunday, Jan 10, 2021. Vivian was the oldest daughter born on March 5, 1951, to the late John and Lucy Chisman in Seaford.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving sister, Jacquelyn Diane Chisman.

Vivian attended James Weldon Johnson and graduated from York High School, Yorktown. She was very proud of her alumni and faithfully attended the class reunions. She dedicated a large portion of her life caring for others as a certified nurse aide. Her career goals in becoming a nurse were shortened when she was injured and became disabled.

At an early age, Vivian accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior and joined Grafton Baptist Church-Harris Grove. Prior to her death, she served alongside the ushers as she greeted the guests with a pleasant smile and warm welcome.

Vivian was known as “Viv” to her friends, and she always joked about her height as she tried to add a couple of inches to her 4’11 1/2 inches.” No one could get her from her favorite pastimes of watching the Western shows (Gunsmoke and Bonanza) and completing word searches. Vivian began doing home workouts in March 2020, with her Facebook trainer (Guru of Abs). Vivian lost 15 pounds during her 10 a.m. senior workouts and never wanted to miss even one workout.

She found a greater joy in learning more about the Bible and participated in weekly Bible studies with her daughter Min. Amy Friday. Her favorite scripture was Psalm 34:1, “I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips…let us exalt his name together.”

Vivian’s memory will always be cherished by her children, Amy Friday of Hampton, Kim (Thomas) of Prince George and Jevon (Nikena) of Norfolk. She instilled in them to do everything in excellence, love God and stay committed to family. She would always tell her three children, I don’t have a whole lot, but what I do have, I will give to you.

She was a loving grandmother and her legacy will live on with her grandchildren, Dominick (Aimee), Jeremy (Tanicka), Eric, Klancy, Maurice, Joyri, Tyra and Janiyah; and five great-grandchildren, Jere’an, J’amer, Jermani, Journei and Kora.

Vivian is survived by her brothers, the Rev. Stafford (Joan) Chisman, Clarence “Cherry” Chisman and Richard “Bae” (Joyce) Chisman. Vivian will forever be cherished by a host of nieces, Tina, Paula, Regina, RaSheeda, Tameika (who took special care of her), Patrice, Tracey, Charlotte, Thelma and Karlene; and nephews, Richard (Bub), Keith, Sinclair, Donald (Duck), Richard (Ricky), Clarence (Bub) and Deon. She left behind some buddies too, Issa and Bet (Mary) who will deeply miss her.

Vivian was a sweet, down-to-earth, little lady. Her children are comforted by the thought of her being with her own parents and loving sister.

A viewing will be held from noon to 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 22, at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel. A homegoing service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 23, at the funeral home chapel.

Share online condolences with the family at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel and Crematory.

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