Mr. Ralph "Larry" Chappell III

Ralph “Larry” Chappell, III (77), of Woodstock, Georgia, passed peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, March 29, after a brief battle with cancer. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and supportive patience that will continue to live on in all who knew him. Larry is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Margaret; his daughter, Carey McElroy (Derrick); his son, Chris Chappell (Randi); and his cherished grandchildren, Caden and Carson McElroy. He also leaves behind a wide circle of beloved friends and extended family who were touched by his kindness, humor, and steady presence. He was preceded in death by his parents, Martha “Pat” Chappell and Ralph Chappell, Jr.; his sister, Donna Roberts; and his brother-in-law, James “Ed” Roberts, Sr. Born and raised in the North Atlanta area, Larry’s love of sports began early. At Dykes High School, he excelled in football and baseball, later delighting family and friends with stories from his playing days—including one unforgettable game where he scored multiple touchdowns and cracked his helmet clean in half. His passion for athletics stayed with him throughout his life. Larry attended the University of Georgia, where he developed a lifelong devotion to Georgia football—proudly cheering on the Dawgs every season. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree at UGA before going on to complete his Master’s in Education from Georgia State University, setting the stage for what would become a remarkable 43-year career in teaching. Larry began teaching at Roswell High School in 1971, where his youthful appearance initially caused him to be mistaken for a student—prompting him to grow his now-signature beard. Over the years, he became a cornerstone of the school community. He coached soccer and baseball early in his career and later served as head of the Science Department, primarily teaching chemistry. For more than three decades, he taught countless students in the Roswell area -including his own children- inspiring them with his patience, encouragement, and genuine love of learning. He took great pride in mentoring young minds and especially enjoyed accompanying Fulton County Science Fair winners to state and national competitions annually. Always forward-thinking, Larry also played a key role in introducing the first computers to Fulton County Schools in the 1980s, leaving a lasting impact on education in the area. These and many other accomplishments earned him Fulton County Teacher of the Year twice. Even after retiring from Roswell High School in 2010, Larry’s passion for teaching continued. He went on to teach chemistry at Kings Ridge Christian School until 2014 and remained a dedicated Chemistry tutor in the North Fulton community, helping students -including both of his grandchildren- build confidence and succeed. Above all, Larry was a family man. A loving and devoted husband, he expressed his care in everyday ways - preparing meals, grocery shopping, and always putting his family first. As a father, he was endlessly supportive and present, from serving as a proud and enthusiastic “Cheerleading Team Dad” for Carey to coaching football and baseball for Chris. His patience, kindness, and unwavering support defined the way he loved. His greatest joy came from being “Ampa” to his grandchildren. Whether coaching Caden in his younger years or cheering from the sidelines as both kids excelled in numerous sports, Larry was their biggest fan. He rarely missed a game, scrimmage, or match, and treasured every moment spent with them. Larry was also a loyal friend with a one-of-a-kind personality. Known affectionately to those close to him as a “Valley Mountain Man,” the creator of his famous “Larry Dip,” dubbed “ the Condiment King,” and, humorously, the “World’s Slowest Eater,” he brought laughter and warmth to every gathering. His stories, traditions, and gentle humor will be deeply missed. To Larry, family and friends were life’s greatest treasures. In honoring his memory, his family invites you to share your stories and celebrate the moments you spent with him. In lieu of flowers or donations, they ask that you spend time with loved ones—sharing a meal, a conversation, and the kind of connection Larry valued most. A celebration of life may be planned at a later date.

Mr. Ralph "Larry" Chappell III

July 13, 1948 - March 29, 2026