Gregory Jo-Lan Chappell

On December 28, 2024, Gregory Jo Lan Chappell passed away at the age of 50 after a brave battle with liver-related complications. Greg's deep love for his family and friends, combined with his boundless zest for life, left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of being part of his world.

Greg was the heartbeat of every room he entered, greeting those he knew—and even those he didn’t—with an exuberant “Heyyyyy!” and a smile that could light up a room. He had a gift for remembering the little things that mattered and loved being the life of the party, always finding joy in laughter and connection. For Greg, relationships were everything, and the impact he made on those around him is immeasurable.

Married to Michelle, his beloved wife of over 24 years, Greg was a devoted husband and father. The bond he shared with his 11-year-old son, Wyatt, was truly special. Whether driving Wyatt to school, discussing their favorite Marvel characters, or planning what to get with their video game winnings at Dave and Busters, Greg cherished every moment spent with him. Wyatt was his pride and joy, and Greg’s eyes would always light up when speaking about him.

Born in Vietnam and adopted as an infant, Greg grew up in Laurel, Maryland, where his roots deeply shaped his sense of place. He graduated from Laurel High School and attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, before building his life in Severn. Working as an insurance agent for Allstate, Greg became a known and loved member of many local networking groups and chambers of commerce. A loyal Ravens fan and true Marylander, he could often be found enjoying a good crab feast and cheering on his favorite team.

Greg leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and heart. He is survived by his wife Michelle, his son Wyatt, his parents Gerald and Jean Chappell, his sisters Danielle Chappell (Karl Adler) and Courtney Chappell (William Hadley), and his nieces and nephews, Henry, Peter, Ellie, and Charlotte. He was predeceased by his brother, Justin Chappell; his brother-in-law, Ben Spangenberg; and his grandmothers, Doris Rooker and Mozelle Chappell.

A visitation will take place on January 11 at Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A. in Odenton, Maryland, from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm. In tribute to Greg's passion for the Baltimore Ravens, we kindly ask that, in lieu of flowers, you consider making a donation to the Mo Gaba Foundation through the Ed Block Courage Awards and the Baltimore Ravens (https://edblock.networkforgood.com/projects/244087-mo-gaba-courage-award)

To honor Greg’s love of karaoke and having a great time with the people in his life, his wife Michelle will host a Memorial / Karaoke Party on January 26 from 12-4 pm at Perry's Restaurant in Odenton, Maryland. With the help of Greg’s family and friends, it will be a party that Greg himself would have loved to attend.

Greg was a man of many gifts and talents, but more than anything, he’ll be remembered as the guy everyone wanted to call their friend—a man whose life was a celebration of love, laughter, and connection. He will be deeply missed, yet his memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.