Born on October 21, 1944, in Norfolk, Ellen grew up on Atterbury Street, where her love for laughter, music, and people first blossomed. She graduated from Norview High School in 1963, and just a year later, in 1964, married the love of her life, Phil Ward Chappell. They shared nearly five decades of marriage before his passing on March 2, 2013.
Ellen was a devoted member of Fox Hall Baptist Church—now Cornerstone Baptist Church. Much of her life was lived in delight.
Those who knew Ellen will remember her as spunky and exuberant, the life of every gathering. She was always laughing, always dancing, and always singing. Her playlist was a lively mix of 1950's and 1960's classics, but she never hesitated to break into newer favorites—like “Watermelon Crawl”—with the same energy and joy.
Ellen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Phil, father, Herman Sr., mother, Nellie, brothers, Herman Jr., James, and one sister, Mary. She is survived by her sister, Donna Kline, along with 6 nieces, 11 nephews, 11 great nieces, 13 great nephews, 1 great-great niece, and 2 great-great nephews, as well as a host of extended family and friends who will dearly miss her vibrant spirit.
Ellen’s life was a song of joy — a melody that continues to echo in the hearts of all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 12, 2:00 pm by Pastor Seth Schwab at Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Rosewood Memorial Park. The family will receive family and friends one hour prior to the service.
Friends may offer condolences at www.kellumfuneralhome.com
