Rev. Dr. Tommy C. Chappell

The Rev. Dr. Tommy Chappell was born on February 3, 1933 in Autauga County, Alabama to the late Mr. and Mrs. Asberry Chappell. In 1952 he married his darling wife of 67 years, Loretha Matt Chappell.. To this marriage, 4 children were born: Agnes, Tommy, Pamela and Christopher. Upon his family moving to Birmingham, Alabama, he joined the St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Cowan. There he served as treasurer of the church and later as chairman of the deacon board.

Dr. Chappell was a successful entrepreneur who owned Chappell’s Upholstery for over over (30) years. In addition, he co-owned Sportsman Limousine Charter Bus Transportation Company.

Desiring to improve the the quality of life for his family and those around him, he could not rest until he founded the New Rising Star Community Federal Development Credit Union. Anybody who sat under his tutelage knows how to work for money, save money and give money. In fact, the testimonials are many who practiced and benefitted from his teachings.

Having dropped out school after his father’s death to financially support his mother and three sisters, he later received his GED and his B. S. Degree from The Birmingham Baptist College. Later, he was bestowed an honorary doctorate degree from Birmingham Baptist Bible College.

In 1974, God called him into the ministry. After serving under Rev. Perry Goins at St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church and under Rev. Nelson Smith at New Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, he was called to pastor New Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church in Eastlake where he served for 35 years. Upon his retirement, he ordained his grandson, Thomas Beavers, as pastor and he was bestowed the title of Pastor Emeritus.

He was known throughout the city and country as a builder, a great spiritual leader and spiritual teacher. While pastor, he embarked upon 3 building projects: 1. an addition (kitchen, dining hall and administrative offices); 2. New worship edifice (sanctuary, kitchen, fellowship hall, classrooms, et veterans and 3. New Christian Life Center (gymnasium, classrooms, fellowship hall, walking, track and other bonus rooms). Interestingly enough, these buildings were constructed debt free through tithes and offerings—praise the Lord!

In keeping with his mission to help people, he founded the New Rising Star Community Support Corporation, concentrating on early childhood development, summer and after school enrichment education,

character development, educational scholarships and affordable housing.

Pastor Chappell, being a servant, served on several boards, including the Birmingham Baptist College Credit Union, Birmingham Baptist Bible College and the New Rising Star Community Support Corporation.