Samuel Chappell

It is with deep love that we announce the passing of Samuel Chappell, who passed away peacefully in the early morning of April 26, 2026, at the age of 19, surrounded by his family, after a lifelong battle with Batten disease.
From the very beginning, Samuel showed a strength and spirit that touched everyone around him. Though his journey was marked by extraordinary challenges, he faced each day with courage, resilience, and a joyful heart that inspired all who knew him.
Samuel was a beloved son, brother, and friend. He especially cherished time with his older brothers and found great joy in being surrounded by his family. He had a playful personality and loved teasing his sisters, often proudly declaring that “boys are better than girls,” with a mischievous grin.
He loved basketball, boat rides at Lake Powell, and the simple happiness of playing with toy animals and Hot Wheels cars. Samuel was a fan of Star Wars, Cars—especially Lightning McQueen—and any movie “with swords.” Every Halloween, he looked forward to becoming Captain Jack Sparrow, a role he wore with pride year after year.
Samuel also found joy in simple, everyday moments. He loved getting the mail after school, setting the table before dinner, and mowing the lawn with his dad—times that meant even more because they were spent together. He delighted in life’s small routines and connections, especially with his dad, who Sam loved dearly.
Music brought him to life, and he loved dancing to Michael Jackson. He especially enjoyed eating his dad’s homemade cookies and telling everyone he met that “I’m tall.” Samuel had a way of making people smile, especially with his signature “big Sam smile” that lit up every room.
Samuel was known for his kindness and faith. He was always quick to say “thank you” to his parents and those around him, and he gently reminded others to say “please” and to say a prayer before dinner. Samuel knew that he was loved by his Savior, Jesus Christ, and he had unwavering faith that through the Savior’s Atonement he would one day be able to see again. Even in the later stages of his illness, when words were harder to come by, his gratitude, warmth, and gentle spirit continued to shine and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Samuel is survived by his parents, Lester and Celeste Chappell; his siblings, Jeffrey, Matthew, Larissa, Jennifer, Emma, and Sarah; his in-laws, Jessi, Niu, and Jake; and his 12 nieces and nephews, who love and miss him very much, along with many extended family members who will forever cherish his memory. Samuel is now gloriously reunited with his older siblings, Christopher, Elizabeth, and James, who passed away from the same condition years ago.
Funeral services will be held on Friday May 1, 2026, at 11:30 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 495 S Canyon Rd, Springville, Utah with a viewing immediately preceding the funeral from 10 to 11:15 AM.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many individuals who blessed Samuel’s life through their dedicated service and love. The entire staff at Oakridge School and Mapleton Elementary. Respite Care Workers Chuck, Kathy, and Brent. To our loving neighbors, ward members, friends, and a special thanks to our hospice nurse, Margaret, and the compassionate caregivers at Intermountain.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Samuel’s memory to the Batten Disease Support and Research Association (BDSRA) or the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Though his time with us feels far too short, Samuel’s life was a testament to joy, love, faith, and resilience. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. We find comfort in the knowledge that because of Jesus Christ, families are eternal and we look forward to the day when we will all be reunited once again.