Gurney Lee Chappell went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at the age of 89. He passed peacefully at his home, surrounded by the family who loved him dearly.
Born Dec. 16, 1936 in the rural community of Covington (Pea Ridge), Richmond County, Gurney was the son of the late John Arnold Chappell and Juanita Parsons Chappell. In 1955, he married the love of his life, Pat Flowers Chappell, with whom he shared 68 years of devotion, partnership, and faith until her passing in 2023.
Gurney proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1960 to 1962 as a member of the 101st Airborne Division’s elite Pathfinders. His commitment to service continued throughout his life, both in his work and in his community.
He began his career at Firestone, where he contributed for eight years, before joining CSX Corporation, serving faithfully for 29 years. Following his retirement from CSX, he continued to share his expertise as a consultant for Plasser American Corporation for nearly 20 years. He was also a faithful member of Crestview Baptist Church, where he served as a choir member, a deacon for many years, and one of the church’s original trustees.
Gifted with extraordinary mechanical talent, Gurney could fix nearly anything placed in front of him. His passion for engines and craftsmanship fueled a lifelong hobby of racing. Together with his sons, family and friends, he built and raced everything from go-karts and lawn mowers to trucks and late-model stock cars. Those countless hours in the shop and at the track became treasured family memories, filled with laughter, teamwork, and the thrill of competition.
Gurney and Pat were blessed with two sons, Brent Chappell (Lisa) of Raleigh and Patrick Chappell (Michelle) of Rockingham. He was a proud grandfather to seven granddaughters who brought him immense joy: Kristina Nicole Chappell, Caroline Grace Chappell, Madelyn Carol Chappell Campolieta (Chris), Sarah Elisabeth Chappell, Savannah Grace Chappell, Lily Catherine Chappell and Taylor Lee Chappell.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Bill Chappell, John Chappell and Edward Chappell; and by his sisters, Lois Maske and Hazel Cox. He is survived by his siblings Earl Chappell, Shirley Dawkins, Carl Chappell, Louise Williams, Johnny Chappell and Jerry Chappell, who will remember him with love and gratitude.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the fellowship hall of Crestview Baptist Church. A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m., officiated by Pastor Robby Stewart. Burial will take place in the church cemetery.
In addition to flowers, memorial donations may be made to Crestview Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 436 Crestview Drive, Rockingham, NC 28379.
Watson-King Funeral Home in Rockingham is honored to serve the Chappell family. Online condolences may be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com.
Gurney’s life was defined by faith, family, hard work, and steadfast devotion. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he loved and in the countless ways he served others. He is now reunited with his beloved Pat, resting in the eternal peace of his Savior.
