James L Chappell

JAMES “LEZELL” CHAPPELL, 66, of Clanton, Alabama, was born on November 10, 1958, to Lehman and Odett Chappell.

He was the youngest of eight children. Preceding him in death were three sisters, Myrtle Osborne, Rose Chappell and Edna Jean Johnson and one brother Jerry Chappell. He departed this life into eternal rest on Friday, June 20, 2025, at UAB St. Vincent’s Chilton in Clanton, Alabama.

Lezell graduated from Chilton County High School in Clanton, Alabama, in 1977. He later joined the United States Army in 1980 and served until 1984.

He worked for O.P. Klinner Furniture store in Clanton, Alabama, for a number of years. Although he held numerous jobs, he was a skilled mechanic who had a passion for working on cars.

He was a loving son, brother, uncle, teacher, cousin, and friend. He had a humble soul. He was faithful and steadfast.

He had a heart for children, filled with kindness, patience and laughter. He had a servanthood spirit. Always willing to do for others no matter what it was that they asked of him. Always willing to lend a helping hand wherever he could. Always putting the needs of others before himself. If you needed him, he was there no matter the day or hour. There are no words to describe how truly missed he will be. He was loved by many.

He is survived by: three brothers, Willie “Bill” Chappell of Clanton, AL, Henry “Bobby” Chappell of Clanton, Alabama, and James “Squirrel” Sowell of Montgomery, Alabama; one sister, Ruthie (Neil) Hawkins of Stamford, CT; nieces and great-nieces, nephews and great nephews; cousins and friends; and an extended (bonus family) whom he took under his wing and became a father and grandfather when it mattered the most.

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