Ralph Howell Chappell Jr.

Ralph Howell Chappell Jr, the beloved husband of Gayle and the loving father and fishing pal to Rusty died in a tragic automobile accident on Saturday, February 19, 2011. Ralph and Gayle had been married 42 years and were planning on at least 50 years together. Ralph was not known for his wealth or fame. He was known to be a kind, gentle, loving man always willing to help the helpless. He had a BA in Fine Art from Birmingham Southern College in Birmingham, AL but he could master anything. He was an artist, a salesman, a teacher, a sales rep and a jack of all trades. He, almost single-handedly constructed a home for his elderly mother so she would be close by. When mentioning Ralph, one thing that must take center is he was an avid fisherman on the Intracoastal Waterway. He spent so many hours night fishing, he named his boat, “NiteStalker.” An article was published about him and his son Rusty in the Sports Section of the Times-Union.

Ralph was predeceased by his mother and father, Ellie Argo Chappell and Ralph H Chappell, Sr. He is survived by his wife, Gayle W. Chappell; his son, Rusty Chappell and his big brother, Robert Douglas Chappell (Melissa). In addition, he is survived by a 91 year old mother- in-law that loves him like a son, Jessie E Walton, and sister-in-laws who feel the same, Lois Johnson (Kenneth) and Jane Ferguson (Neil). He has many nieces and nephews who loved him and will miss him.

Ralph is in heaven with Jesus. We grieve not for him but in our loss of having him around to love and be with. He will be missed greatly.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Thursday, February 23 in Switzerland Community Church, 2179 State Rd 13, Switzerland, FL 32259.