Ernest Ronald "Ronnie" Chappell

Ernest Ronald “Ronnie” Chappell of Clinton, MS passed away peacefully on January 5, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. Ronnie was born January 1, 1944 to Ernest and Evelyn Chappell. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1963. Following graduation, he continued his education at Hinds Community College, studying engineering and drafting.

In 1964 Ronnie married the love of his life, Sherry. They recently celebrated 51 years of marriage. Their love for each other was unconditional and their dedication to each other served as a wonderful example of what a marriage should be.

In 1967 Ronnie and his lifelong friend, Buddy Flynt, started Custom Cabinet Center in Clinton. After 30 years of success, Ronnie retired from the Cabinet Center to pursue his passion in public service.

Even at a young age, Ronnie understood the importance of service. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the Army National Guard, training at Fort Polk, LA and Fort Sill, OK. Ronnie served tirelessly in numerous positions, supporting his community, city, state, and country. He served on the Clinton Planning and Zoning Board, served on the Clinton Board of Alderman, and represented District 4 as a Hinds County Supervisor for 16 years. Ronnie’s life was enriched by the people he met, the help he was able to provide for his constituents, and the lasting friendships he developed.

Ronnie was also a member of Mt. Salus Masonic Lodge in Clinton, American Legion Post 1 and Morrison Heights Baptist Church.

After his retirement, Ronnie could be found working in his greenhouse, riding his trails to watch his deer, or nurturing the numerous cats that always knew he had a plate for them. His most treasured times were those spent with his family.

He lived his life by example and took so much pride and joy in guiding his children and grandchildren through life. He could always be counted on for a good story to help you learn a lesson.

Ronnie is preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Evelyn Chappell. Ronnie is survived by his loving wife Sherry, his 3 children- Tracy Borlin (Erik), Rhonda Chappell (Terry Williams), and Randy Chappell (Michelle). His pride and joy were his grandchildren, Chelsea and Sean Borlin, and Ryan and Chase Chappell, and his new great grandson, Kenton Reese Borlin.

Ronnie is also survived by his sister Charlotte Lee (Bobby), of New Hebron, MS. Brother in laws Bill Bolls (Judy), Charlie Bolls, Paul Bolls (Melissa), and his special cousins Mike and Shelia Kearney, and numerous special nieces and nephews. Ronnie’s sweet smile and warm heart will be greatly missed, but his loving spirit will always live within us.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, January 7, 2016 at Lakewood Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held in the funeral home chapel on Friday at 11:00 AM with visitation one hour prior. Interment will follow at Lakewood Memorial Park.

Please visit lakewoodfuneralhomes.com for online guestbook.