Joseph Alvin Parnell, 89, of Columbia, died Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at Shanti Niketan Hospice House in Glasgow.
He was born November 26, 1936, in Adair County to the late Joseph Oscar and Dellie Rogers Parnell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two brothers, Carl Parnell and James “Jiggs” Parnell; and his five sisters, Ora Sneed, Pauline Sneed, Lillian Coomer, Alice Sneed and Flossie Hamlett.
Mr. Parnell was a faithful member of Jones Chapel Church, serving as Sunday School Teacher for 50 years and Sunday School Superintendent for over 60 years. He retired from the Adair County School System after 30 years where he taught at Adair County High School.
Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Norma Jean Hamlett Parnell of Columbia; two daughters, Ann Marr (Timmy) of Greensburg and Pam Jones of Columbia; one grandson, David Marr (Heather) of Lexington; three great-granddaughters, Anneliese, Madelyn and Emmeline; and several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at Grissom-Martin Funeral Home with Bro. Mark Givens and Bro. Bobby Withers officiating.
Burial in Jones Chapel Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a donation to Jones Chapel Church.
Casket bearers were Barry Hamlett, Johnny Richard, Mike Parnell, Timmy Marr, David Marr, Jamie Richard and Derek Richard.
Honorary casket bearers were Carolyn Richard, Barbara Jean Coomer, Margie Smith, Faye Blakey, Linda Brock, and Wanda Hatcher.
Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.
