Orla R Chaplin

Orla Chaplin

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Orla Chaplin, a man whose strength, kindness, and love shaped the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. For 45 years, he was the devoted and unwavering partner of his beloved wife, Candy—together building a life full of loyalty, laughter, and quiet resilience.

Orla was a cherished brother to Gloria Dickhorner, Jimmy Chaplin, Mary Gish, John Norman, and Pauline Morrison. His family was his greatest pride. As a father to Michelle Norman and James Chaplin, he poured his heart into guiding, protecting, and supporting them. As a grandfather to Susan Parcaut, Tony Parcaut, Chris Parcaut, Cerina Chaplin, Jonathan Chaplin, Nyah Chaplin, and Shemar Chaplin, and great-grandfather to Maci Parcaut and Rathel Hicks, he was a constant source of wisdom, patience, and love. His presence made every family gathering warmer and every memory brighter.

A dedicated carpenter with Local 217 for more than 20 years, Orla built far more than structures—he built stability and opportunity for his family. His hands were always busy, whether crafting something from wood, repairing a car, or teaching the kids skills he believed everyone should have. Those lessons—practical and life-shaping—will stay with them forever.

Orla lived a life rich with passion. He earned a 5th-degree black belt through years of discipline and determination. He loved the thrill and freedom of scuba diving, the camaraderie of high school football, the focus of the swim team, and the open road on a motorcycle. He carried a spirit of adventure throughout his life, yet he was always humble and grounded.

He was loved deeply—not only by family, but by countless friends and people whose lives he touched with his generosity, humor, and steady presence. To know Orla was to feel supported, understood, and cared for.

His absence leaves a profound emptiness, but his legacy—his lessons, his love, and his laughter—will live on in every heart he touched. He will be missed more than words can ever express.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Orla R Chaplin, please visit our floral store.