Paul and Barbara Chappelle, devoted partners in life for 58 years, passed away just two days apart, with Barbara departing on January 30, 2025, and Paul following on February 1, 2025. Their love story began with a whirlwind romance, leading to marriage after just eight months together, and blossomed into nearly six decades of cherished memories.
Barbara was born on December 12, 1942, in Providence, RI, to the late Theodore and Alice (Paliotti) Belhumeur. She was a devoted military wife, supporting Paul's service in the Air Force, as they relocated across the country and the world. Settling in Coventry, RI, Barbara pursued her education and built a successful career with the State of Rhode Island.
Paul was born on June 28, 1939, in Providence, RI, to the late Elmer and Myrtle (Elfstrom) Chappelle. His military career spanned over two decades, with service in the Office of Special Investigations. After the military, he served in the Department of Defense until his retirement.
Barbara's passion for cooking, passed down from her mother and aunt, made her an extraordinary cook who delighted in sharing meals with family and friends. She took great pride in her garden, which Paul lovingly maintained. A brilliant mind with an affinity for trivia, Barbara's intellectual curiosity and love for learning were evident in all she did. Her love for travel led her to many cruises, where she fully indulged in culinary experiences.
Paul had a deep love for the ocean and the game of golf, and an innate ability to master whatever he pursued. He had a deep love for his family, always putting them first, and shared a special bond with many pets throughout his life. His faith was central to his life, and he selflessly cared for the women in his life, his mother, mother-in-law, wife and both daughters, demonstrating his unwavering devotion to family.
Together, Paul and Barbara built a life rich with love, laughter, and commitment to each other. They are survived by their daughters: Desiree McAloon and her husband Dan (HHFD) of Coventry and Jennifer Colozzi and her husband Edward Jr. of Hastings on Hudson, NY; grandson, Andrew Raymond McAloon (CCFD) of Coventry; Paul's brother Larry Chappelle (Shiela), of North Kingstown; and brother in law James Taylor of Exeter. They also leave behind Barbara's siblings Dr. Ted Belhumeur (Elizabeth Pease) of Pompano Beach, FL and Dr. Richard Belhumeur (Barbara) of North Scituate. They also leave behind many cherished nieces and nephews. They were predeceased by Paul's sister, Sharon Taylor of Exeter.
A funeral will be held from Carpenter-Jenks Funeral Home, 659 E. Greenwich Avenue, West Warwick, on Friday, February 7, at 10:45 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Saints John and Paul Parish, Coventry, at 12:00 p.m. Burial with military honors will take place at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter, RI. Calling hours will be on Thursday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul and Barbara's memory may be made to
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, 385 Fruit Hill Avenue, North Providence, RI 02911.