La Fonda Sue Honeycutt is best known as the first wife of Duane “Dog” Chapman, the famous bounty hunter. Born on January 20, 1953, in Pampa, Texas, she grew up in a modest home with her parents Glenn and Elwanda Honeycutt. Her early life was shaped by small-town values, emphasizing family and stability. Even though she was once married to a future television star, La Fonda chose a quieter life focused on her children and family.
Quick Bio of La Fonda Sue Honeycutt
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | La Fonda Sue Honeycutt |
| Date of Birth | January 20, 1953 |
| Place of Birth | Pampa, Texas, USA |
| Age | 72 years (as of 2025) |
| Nationality | American |
| First Marriage | Duane “Dog” Chapman (1972–1977) |
| Children (with Duane) | Duane Lee Chapman II, Leland Chapman |
| Second Marriage | Jim Darnell (1977–present) |
| Children (with Jim) | Hannah Dawn Darnell, Britney Lynn Darnell |
| Grandchildren | Dakota Chapman, Cobie Chapman, Leiah Breanna Chapman, Dylan Chapman |
| Profession | Homemaker / Former Beautician |
| Appearance | Blonde hair, blue eyes, 5’6” (approx.) |
| Public Life | Private, minimal media presence |
Early Life and Family Background
La Fonda Sue Honeycutt married Duane Chapman in 1972 when she was just 19 years old. Their marriage lasted until 1977, a period marked by both love and challenges. Duane was involved in legal troubles, which created stress in the relationship. Despite these difficulties, La Fonda gave birth to their two sons, Duane Lee Chapman II and Leland Chapman, both of whom later became public figures in the bounty hunting world.

Divorce and Second Marriage
The couple’s divorce in 1977 was a turning point for La Fonda. She decided to focus on providing a stable life for her children. Soon after, she married Jim Darnell, with whom she had two daughters, Hannah Dawn Darnell and Britney Lynn Darnell. La Fonda’s second marriage reflected her desire for privacy and a calm domestic life, away from the public spotlight.
Children and Their Achievements
Her sons, Duane Lee Chapman II and Leland Chapman, often speak about their mother’s guidance during challenging times. Even as they followed their father’s footsteps into bounty hunting, La Fonda remained a grounding presence. She emphasized family values and the importance of maintaining a normal life despite fame and attention.
Family and Grandchildren
La Fonda Sue Honeycutt’s children have grown into successful adults. Leland Chapman, for example, became a prominent bounty hunter like his father. Meanwhile, Duane Lee Chapman II chose a quieter path but stayed connected with the family legacy. La Fonda also enjoys her role as a grandmother, with grandchildren such as Dakota Chapman, Cobie Chapman, Leiah Breanna Chapman, and Dylan Chapman.
Privacy and Personal Life
Despite her connection to fame, La Fonda Sue Honeycutt has always valued privacy. There are very few public pictures of La Fonda Sue Honeycutt, and she rarely participates in media or interviews. Her focus has consistently been her family and ensuring a stable environment for her children and grandchildren.
Appearance and Nationality
Her nationality is American, and she is described as having blonde hair and blue eyes. While her exact height and weight are less discussed, earlier reports suggest she is about 5 feet 6 inches tall. Even in her 70s, La Fonda maintains a presence rooted in dignity and grace.
Life with Jim Darnell
The marriage to Jim Darnell gave La Fonda the family life she always wanted. Her daughters, Hannah Dawn Darnell and Britney Lynn Darnell, remain largely private, but they carry forward the values instilled by their mother. La Fonda’s second family life contrasts with her early years with Duane Chapman, showing her ability to create stability after a turbulent period.
Role as a Grandmother
La Fonda Sue Honeycutt’s grandchildren are also an essential part of her life. She takes pride in watching them grow and supporting them in their endeavors. Her sons, too, often credit her for their resilience and grounding, even while navigating the challenges of fame in the Chapman family.
Legacy and Influence
Over the years, La Fonda has built a reputation not for public fame but for being a strong, supportive mother. Her story demonstrates how one can be connected to high-profile figures yet maintain personal dignity and family stability. La Fonda Sue Honeycutt is a symbol of quiet strength and resilience.
Beyond Being Duane Chapman’s Ex
Though many people recognize her as Duane Chapman’s ex-wife, her life story goes far beyond that. She has experienced the challenges of early marriage, raising children, and supporting a family amid public attention. Her choice to focus on her children and second family highlights her priorities and character.

Media Presence
In the media, references to La Fonda Sue Honeycutt often mention her role in the Chapman family. However, she has carefully maintained her privacy, avoiding the television spotlight. This decision reflects her desire for a normal life and a focus on family values over fame.
Photos and Public Appearance
La Fonda Sue Honeycutt’s picture and media appearances are rare, but the available images show a woman proud of her family and confident in her choices. She demonstrates that one can remain strong and influential without seeking public recognition.
Family Legacy
Her sons, daughters, and grandchildren are now her legacy. The influence of La Fonda Sue Honeycutt can be seen in their lives, achievements, and family cohesion. She embodies resilience, privacy, and nurturing guidance, which have helped shape the Chapman family across generations.
Strength and Resilience
Even though she is less known in popular media than Duane Chapman, La Fonda’s life remains impactful. She represents the strength and stability behind the scenes, a figure who ensured her children had the support and values needed to navigate life successfully.
Life Choices and Priorities
Her story is also a lesson in choice and priorities. La Fonda Sue Honeycutt opted for family and personal stability over public fame, creating a life filled with love, resilience, and grounded values. Her quiet influence continues to shape the Chapman family’s story.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is La Fonda Sue Honeycutt?
A1: La Fonda Sue Honeycutt is the first wife of Duane Chapman, mother of four children, and a grandmother.
Q2: How many children does La Fonda Sue Honeycutt have?
A2: She has four children: Duane Lee Chapman II, Leland Chapman, Hannah Dawn Darnell, and Britney Lynn Darnell.
Q3: When was La Fonda Sue Honeycutt born?
A3: She was born on January 20, 1953, in Pampa, Texas, USA.
Q4: Who is La Fonda Sue Honeycutt married to now?
A4: After divorcing Duane Chapman, she married Jim Darnell and has lived a private family life since.
Q5: Does La Fonda Sue Honeycutt have grandchildren?
A5: Yes, she has several grandchildren including Dakota Chapman, Cobie Chapman, Leiah Breanna Chapman, and Dylan Chapman.
Conclusion
In conclusion, La Fonda Sue Honeycutt is more than Duane Chapman’s first wife. She is a mother, grandmother, and a woman who prioritized family, privacy, and stability over celebrity. Her life demonstrates strength, resilience, and dedication. Through her children and grandchildren, her legacy continues to thrive, showing the profound impact she has had on her family and their journey.
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