Faye Stapleton

Faye L. Smith Stapleton, 90, longtime resident of Paradise and Chico, died in Woodland, CA on January 21, 2010 after a short illness. Faye was born in Paris, MN on August 21, 1919, first born to Harold and Verna Pearl Smith. The family lived in Iowa, eventually moving to Bellflower, CA in the 1920's where her father found work at Tidewater Oil Company. After high school, Faye went to work for Van De Camps Bakery, where she learned her baking skills. It was her love for roller skating on weekends that allowed her the opportunity to meet her adoring husband to be, James Abner Stapleton. They were married in Las Vegas, Nevada on March 20, 1942. While her husband was serving in the Navy (a survivor of Pearl Harbor), Faye went to work for Douglas Aircraft with her sisters and was part of America's war effort; a "Rosie the Riveter" of her time. Faye's love for God and family came first and foremost in her heart. Her sons were her pride and joy and her unyielding love for each was never ending. Her grandson's were the recipients of her kindness and love. Faye's favorite things to do were baking for her family, singing church songs, playing her organ, dancing with "Jimmie", traveling to see family and good friends and trips to America's popular destinations. Later in life she enjoyed "little rides' around the area, reading, playing games and crossword puzzles, and watching old westerns. Her husband of 60 years predeceased her July 1, 2002. Survivors include her son's and daughter-in-laws, Nathan (Susan) Stapleton of Woodland, CA and Richard (Cheryl) Stapleton of Paradise, CA and two grandsons, Scott Stapleton and Jason Stapleton, both of Chico. Step-grandchildren include, Joe (Diane) Kovach of Woodville, OH, Shane (Nanette) Zenz of Casselberry, FL, Kim (Joe) Gordon of Sanford, FL, Todd (Christy) Zenz of Casselberry, FL, Brett (Lori) Silva of Orland, Rick (Mady) Silva of Chico and Jody (Joy) Silva of Folsom, CA. She also leaves behind her sisters, Opal Nay of Escondido, CA and Thelma Smith of Sacramento, CA; only brother, Nathan (Cindy) Smith of Bonita, CA. Faye was also predeceased by her two sisters, Mildred Alewyain and Betty Maddock. She also has over 12 nieces and nephews left behind that she dearly loved and several great-nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association. A Memorial is planned for Saturday, January 30, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at Bruise's Funeral Home, 626 Broadway St., Chico, CA 95928.