Ralph Edward Chappell, Jr., age 88, of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, passed away on April 15, 2026, after an extended illness. Born in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and growing up in the Elmira and Horseheads areas of New York, he was the son of the late Ralph E. Chappell, Sr. and Christine T. Conti.

Ralph is predeceased by his father Ralph, Sr., mother Christine (Conti), biological mother Florence Mick, and brother Ronald. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Patricia J. (DeVoe); children Karen Bartling (Joe), David Chappell (Regina), and Tracy McCarthy (Kevin); grandchildren Melissa Munson (Eric), Joshua Chappell (Brianne), Jennifer McCarthy (Melisa), Joel Bartling, Andrea Chappell, Sean McCarthy (Katie), Caitlin Aeschleman (Jacob), Alicia McCarthy; and great grandchildren Carter, Raylan, and Hensley Munson; Oliver Coombs; Lucy and Nova McCarthy; Grace Aeschleman; Phoebe Chappell; and Finnegan McCarthy.

Ralph joined the U.S. Marines in January 1956, and went to basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina. After basic training, he served at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and Norfolk Naval Air Station, Virginia. He received a Good Conduct Medal in October 1957 and was discharged from the Marines in February 1959.

Ralph and Patricia were married November 24, 1956, after a brief courtship. After the Marine Corps, they bought their first home with their three children in 1966, in Horseheads, New York.

Ralph was a salesperson at an early age selling his mother’s crocheted creations. He worked for Gribbin Roofing Company and then started his own real estate company – Chappell Real Estate. Later he owned three franchises with Century 21 Real Estate. After the real estate market downturn, he continued to work hard finding different sales opportunities. He was, at his core, always a salesman more interested in people than the product and known for the relationships he built along the way.

Ralph had several bible verses that he cherished and one of his favorites, that he declared often, was Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. He put Jesus first in his life and cherished his family above all else. The love he carried for both was evident every day, and now he rests in the presence of the One he loved most.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11 am, at South Strand Assembly of God, 3507 US-17 Business, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, immediately followed by a small reception. Your presence and support are deeply appreciated as we honor and celebrate Ralph’s life.

Ralph and Pat first attended South Strand Assembly of God in 1995 and have been members for over 20 years. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the church family for the love, comfort, and spiritual support over the past few years and especially for the grace and compassion offered during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Samaritan’s Purse Ministry.

Cremation Services Direct (843-651-1194) of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina is assisting the family with the arrangements.