Patricia “Pat” Emmott Chappell of Cokesbury Village, Hockessin passed away peacefully April 21, 2023 at the age of 90.
Born in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of the late Walter Gordon Emmott and Miriam Stackhaus Emmott of Media, PA. Pat graduated from The George School, Newtown, PA in 1950 and received her BA in English at the University of Delaware (UD) in 1954. She met Richard William “Dick” Chappell at UD and they married after graduation enjoying 69 years of a wonderful and close marriage.
After Dick’s two-year tour of duty in the US Army, they settled in north Wilmington and raised three children. In the mid 60’s Dick restored a 1956 Chevrolet Nomad, a stylish top of the line two door station wagon for 1955-57 which piqued Pat’s interest in automobiles. They joined a local car club and enjoyed participating in car shows around the country. Pat and Dick were instrumental in organizing a local club for Nomads, the Mid-Atlantic Nomad Association which needed a newsletter, so Pat put her English degree to use and became the editor. She contributed to other car club publications and national magazines becoming well known as a Chevrolet automotive journalist which was especially impressive as a female pioneer in a male dominated field. As a sign of the times, since her name was Pat, she would often receive letters from Chevy enthusiasts addressed to Mr. Pat Chappell. She was thrilled to be invited to join the Society of Automotive Historians and became one of the few female members. The highlight of Pat’s career was the publication of her book, The Hot One, Chevrolet 1955-1957 with 25,000 copies printed. It is considered the landmark publication of that memorable era of Chevrolet.
Pat was known by her family and friends for her thoughtful letter writing, quick wit, beautiful gardens and always being there to provide support and encouragement. Preceded in death by her sister Susan Forsythe, Pat is survived by her husband Richard, son Richard, Jr. (Holly), daughter Barbara, daughter Deborah Garber (James) and grandchildren, John and Christa.
Contributions may be made in Pat’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association.
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