Obituary of Howard Joshua Parnell, Jr.

Howard Joshua Parnell Jr., 75 passed away January 26^th, 2019.   He was born on October 3^rd, 1943 to the late Howard J Parnell Sr and Mae Yates Parnell in Columbia, SC.  Howard graduated from Hillcrest High School in Sumter SC.  He received a degree from John A Gupton School of Mortuary Science.   Howard was former owner of Parnell-Rutledge-Hurst Funeral home and served as Sumter County Coroner from 1970-1978.  He continued his career with Patterson Funeral home in Atlanta GA and later retired from Dunbar Funeral Home in Columbia SC. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family and will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor.

Howard is survived by his wife of 27 years Becky Hamilton Parnell, daughters Amber and Allie of the home, sons Chris Parnell and Andy (Lynn) Parnell both of Aiken SC.  Grandchildren C.T. April, Nick, Hunter and Kylie,  sister Pam (Mike) Hopkins of Columbia,  nieces Aimee Dilleshaw Rish and Lisa Bjarnese, mother in law Betty Foshee Hamilton, 3 great grand children, and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by daughter Jane Parnell, son and daughter in law Joel and Shelley Hill and sister Ann Culler.

 A memorial service will be held on Saturday February 2^nd 2019 at 11:30 AM at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1715 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29210 with the Rev. Dr. Chris Denny officiating.  Visitation will begin prior to the service at 10:30-11:30 at the Church.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church or a charity of one’s choice. South Carolina Cremation Society is assisting the family.