James Noel Chappell, known to family and friends as Jim or Starsky, of Napoleon, Missouri, passed away peacefully at Research Medical Center on July 19, 2025 at the age of 94. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 30th from 1-3pm, with a Celebration of Life to follow at 3pm, both at Royer Funeral Home in Oak Grove, MO. Interment will follow in Greenton Cemetery, in Odessa, MO.
Jim was born on April 11, 1931 in Kansas City, Missouri, the only son of James and Treva (Gramling) Chappell. He gave his life to Jesus at age 12. Jim graduated from William Chrisman High School and was a member of the ROTC. He married Elizabeth “Betty” Striley on November 24, 1950, in Independence, MO. They lived in rural Napoleon, where they raised their two children, Jimmie “Taco” Lee & April Gail. Jim worked for P.I.E., Pacific International Express truckline, as a truck driver for 41 years before retiring in 1991. He will be remembered as being a “jack of all trades”. He completed many outdoor projects around their home that were enjoyed by an abundance of family and friends. He and Betty thrived being able to host social gatherings at their home, especially their annual P.I.E Picnic. He enjoyed going to antique engine shows. Jim and Betty traveled often and loved the outdoors.
Survivors include son Jimmie Chappell (Teresa) of Napoleon, MO; daughter April Stoenner (Mike) of Wellington, MO; four grandchildren: Brian Chappell (Megan) of Lexington, MO, Hollie Wallace (Kevin) of Napoleon, MO, Heather Kirchhoff (Jeremy) of Wellington, MO, and Jennifer Rusher (Charlie) of Brighton, MI; and seven great-grandchildren: Haleigh & Brooklyn Chappell, Levi & Kaden Wallace, Jocelyn & Brynlee Kirchhoff, and baby Rusher. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and wife.
In his memory, contributions are suggested to Tunnel to Towers Foundation or Hope of Lake Lafayette.
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Oak Grove, Missouri