Chapin, October 18, 2025
News Summary
Chapin Mayor Al Koon Jr. passed away on October 17, 2025, at the age of 74, following a brief stay in hospice care. Known for his dedication to public service and family, Koon’s contributions to the community were widely recognized. His memorial services will be held soon, and the community is encouraged to honor his memory. Koon had been a significant figure leading up to the upcoming mayoral election, which adds to the profound loss felt by residents.
Chapin
Chapin Mayor Al Koon Jr. passed away on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Lexington Medical Center. He was 74 years old at the time of his passing. His death was announced just two days after it was reported that he had entered hospice care.
Koon was widely recognized as a dedicated public servant with deep faith. Throughout his life, he was described as a devoted husband, father, and visionary leader. He was born on July 23, 1951, in Chapin to Albert Ray Sr. and Dorothy Stuart Koon. Mayor Koon was married to his wife, Susan Koon, for 52 years, and the couple had two sons and four grandchildren.
Before his political career, Koon worked as a retired engineer from South Carolina Electric & Gas (SCE&G). He was elected mayor of Chapin in 2021 after serving on the town council. His vision for the town and commitment to its growth and well-being earned him respect and admiration from his peers and constituents. Following his passing, the town expressed deep condolences to the Koon family, recognizing his countless contributions to the community.
Memorial Services and Community Response
Plans for memorial services have been announced. Koon will lie in state at Chapin Town Hall on October 20 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. On the same day, the Koon family will be receiving friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Funeral services are scheduled for October 21 at 11:00 AM at Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church, officiated by Rev. Ron Philabaum. Following the funeral service, interment will take place at the church cemetery.
The town encourages residents to honor Koon’s memory by leaving messages on his tribute page or the Town Facebook page. Community members are also invited to share letters, cards, or messages of encouragement at Chapin Town Hall for the Koon family. Town employees plan to honor Koon by wearing orange and purple, representing his favorite team.
Upcoming Mayoral Election
An ongoing mayoral election is scheduled for November 4, in which Koon had filed as a candidate for a second term. His passing comes as the community is preparing for this election, adding a profound sense of loss as they reflect on his leadership and commitment to Chapin.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Chapin Mayor Al Koon Jr. pass away?
Chapin Mayor Al Koon Jr. died on Friday, October 17, 2025.
What was the cause of Mayor Koon’s death?
The town announced his death just two days after reporting he had entered hospice care.
How old was Mayor Koon at the time of his passing?
Koon was 74 years old at the time of his passing.
What contributions did Mayor Koon make to the town?
Koon was known as a dedicated public servant with deep faith, a devoted husband, father, and visionary leader.
What are the memorial service details?
Koon will lie in state at Chapin Town Hall on October 20 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The Koon family will be receiving friends on the same day from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Funeral services will take place on October 21 at 11:00 AM at Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church, officiated by Rev. Ron Philabaum.
Is there an ongoing election related to Mayor Koon?
Yes, there is an ongoing mayoral election set for November 4, in which Koon had filed as a candidate for a second term.
