Porter Hudson Chappell Jr.'s Obituary
Porter “Hudson” Chappell Jr., age 83, of Bartlett, passed away on February 18th, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Hudson was born on May 8, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late Porter and Charlotte Chappell. A lifelong resident of the Memphis area, he graduated from White Station High School in 1960. He continued his education at Memphis State University, earning his Bachelor of Science degree in 1966.
Hudson married his high school sweetheart, Esther Bisio Chappell, in June of 1962. Together, they shared 63 wonderful years of marriage and built a loving home while raising three children. Hudson was known for his kindness, steady character, and strong work ethic. Over the course of his career, he worked for Exxon, American Air Filter, and retired from Pure Air, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends.
Hudson was a devoted son, husband, father, brother, and grandfather. He enjoyed metal detecting, Saturday breakfast with close friends, American history, working in his yard, cooking ribs, and cheering on his favorite Alabama football team. Above all else, he cherished his family—especially his grandsons. Hudson and Esther rarely missed a sports game or academic event, always offering wisdom, support, and steady encouragement.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Esther; his children, Michael (Kathy) Chappell, Jennifer (Kenny) Thompson, and Denise (Ed) Brooks; his grandsons, Zane, Joe, Nicholas, and Ryan; his brother, Richard (Peggy) Chappell; and his sister, Lou (Philip) Lowe, and many nieces and nephews. His family and friends will all miss him dearly.
Hudson’s legacy of love, integrity, and devotion to family will live on in all who knew him.
A visitation will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Poplar Avenue on Saturday, March 14th, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., with a graveside service afterward.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you perform a random act of kindness in Hudson’s memory or consider donating to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, Tennessee 38119 (901) 767-8930. “Where Memphis comes to remember, since 1924.
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