Jesse James Chappel

Jesse James Chappel, 87, of Magnolia, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025, at the Villas of Texarkana. He was born on October 2, 1937, in Magnolia, Arkansas, to the late Kirkpatrick and Beulah Woodmore Chappel. Jesse graduated from Columbia High School in Magnolia, where he laid the foundation for a lifetime of hard work and dedication.

Jesse enjoyed a long and fulfilling career at Southern Extrusion/Howmet/Alumax Corp, where he worked for many years until his retirement. Outside of his professional life, Jesse's true passions were hunting, fishing, and hobby farming, and ranching-activities that brought him joy and created lasting memories.

Jesse was a devoted servant of God. He faithfully served at Homes Near Baptist Church as a Deacon, Minister, and Sunday School Superintendent for many years. Later, he pastored Countyline Baptist Church in Stamps, Arkansas, where he continued to touch lives with his faith and leadership, having been installed on November 6, 2005.

In April 1959, Jesse married Earnestine Colvin, who preceded him in death on September 6, 1999. Together, they raised three children: Margie, James, and Douglas. Jesse was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather who loved spending time outdoors and working with his hands.

In 2002, Jesse married Marilyn Mack, and the two shared 24 years of love and support for one another, expanding the family Jesse cherished so deeply.

Daughters Wendy (Cory) Childs, Dallas, TX, Racquel Ceasar, Houston TX, Rachel Aaron, Little Rock, AR; Grandchildren, Chana Childs, Addison and Austin Ceasar and Skylar Aaron.

Extended Family:

Charles Davis, Anchorage AL, Robert Davis, Hot Springs, AR, Ray, Hazel, James, Glenn, Howard Davis, Magnolia, AR, Michael Davis (deceased)

Jesse was known for his big smile, infectious personality, and his deep love for his family, friends, and community. He was a man whose heart was as big as his grin, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Jesse was also preceded in death by: His parents, Kirkpatrick and Beulah Chappel; his son, Douglas Chappel (February 20, 2023); his brother, Rapheld Chappel; and his sister, Mary Lampley.

He is survived by: His beloved wife of 16 years, Marilyn Chappel; two sisters, Irene Cazy and Dortha Young of Rockford, IL; his daughter, Margie (James) Russ of Augusta, GA; two sons, James (Claudia) Chappel of Norman, OK, and David (Carolyn) Banks of Houston, TX; daughter-in-law, Marsha Chappel of Jacksonville, FL; three grandsons, Daniel Chappel, David Banks II, and Christian Chappel; four granddaughters, Michelle Russ, Adria Chappel Moore (OK), Ashley Banks (TX), and Mauriel Chappel (FL); two great-grandchildren, Kyree and Kolby Banks (TX); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Jesse's life was a testament to love, service, and unwavering faith. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday August 2, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Henderson Mortuary Chapel, Magnolia, AR with burial to follow at Kings Hill Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be Friday evening from 5 to 6 pm at Henderson Mortuary Chapel.