Tilson Edward Chappell

Tilson Edward Chappell, 89, of Belvidere, NC passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, November 16, 2025.

Mr. Chappell was born in Gates County on August 20, 1936, and was the son of the late Fernando R. Chappell and Sibyl Blanchard Chappell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Wynda C. Chesson; and step-sons Clarence C. Chappell III and William C. Chappell.

Graduating from NCSU in 1958 with a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and mathematical engineering. Also earning a Master’s degree in mechanical engineering in 1959. He later went on to work for NASA where he spent 40 years in the space and climate research program. Being awarded with the Outstanding Public Leadership Medal, the highest medal to be awarded to a U.S. citizen.

Surviving is his wife, Annie Lou Lane Chappell; daughter, Anita C. Gates (Jim); son, Alan R. Chappell (John); step-daughter, Luann Popovich (Mark); brother-in-law, Parker Chesson; aunt Thelma Benton; grandchildren, Sara Sonnenberg (Eric), Benjamin C. Dixon (Faye); step-grandchildren, Alex Popovich, Monica Chappell (Alan), Jessica Oliver (John), Heather Dalcourt (Micheal), Chad Chappell (Betsy), Caitlyn B. Bunch (Tyler), and Camryn J. Delosreyes (Alexia); 13 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Friday, November 21, 2025, at Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, Hertford by Pastor Ricky Lowry. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point road, Hertford, NC.

Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.