Mary Jane Chappell

Graveside services for Mary Jane Chappell, 84, of Lufkin will be held Saturday, September 19, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. in the Garden of Memories Memorial Park with Pastor Austin Nix officiating.

Mrs. Chappell was born September 5, 1942 in Apple Springs, Texas to the late Addis (Young) and Arthur Due, and died Wednesday, September 9, 2026 in a local nursing home.

Mary Jane Chappell (Jane or Janie to friends and family) grew up in Apple Springs, Texas, where she attended school and was raised in the Baptist Church. From an early age, Jane had a love for sports and a competitive spirit. During high school, she played basketball and volleyball, was a cheerleader and enjoyed participating in other school activities.

It was during one of her basketball games that Jane met the love of her life, Larry Chappell. That meeting began a lifelong love story, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Jane’s love of sports continued throughout her life. Whether she was participating in her bowling league, enjoying a round of golf, or sitting on the sidelines cheering on her children and grandchildren, she loved being part of the game. She was an avid golfer and a beloved member of Lufkin Country Club, where she could often be found at least three days a week. Golf was not simply a pastime for Jane - it was a place where she made friendships, shared laughter, and enjoyed life.

Family was at the heart of Jane’s life. She had a special way of making everyone feel like they belonged. Her children’s and grandchildren’s friends were never simply “friends” - she treated them as her own and welcomed them into her family with open arms.

Jane also loved to cook, and her children will tell you that no one could make fried okra and salmon croquettes quite like their mother. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and fellowship, and there was always room at her table. She welcomed anyone who stopped by to sit with her, share a cup of coffee, and visit a while.

Though she was a little woman, Jane was full of spunk and had a personality that filled every room. She had a wonderful wit and an incredible ability to make people laugh. Her laughter, her stories, her kindness, and the way she made everyone feel welcome will be treasured by all who knew and loved her.

Jane lived a life filled with family, friendship, faith, sports, laughter, and love. She leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and countless lives she touched along the way. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Kenneth and Susan Chappell of Willis; daughter, Jana Chappell of Houston; grandson and wife, Regan and Madison Cruse; granddaughter and husband, Olivia (Cruse) and Cameron McClendon; granddaughters, Lainey and Sophie Chappell; and sisters, Jean Dubose, Maycel Robinson, and Carolyn Baker.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Arthur and Addis Due; sisters, Juanita Due and Ruth White; brothers, James Due, Coleman Due, and Robert Due; husband, Larry Chappell; and daughter, Deidra (Chappell) Cruse.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday at Carroway Funeral Home.

Memories and condolences may be added, and live webcasting of the services may be viewed, at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.