Boyd Craig Parnell's Obituary
Boyd Craig Parnell, 80, was called home to Heaven on Tuesday, April 26, 2022.
Boyd was born on November 13, 1941 in Perry County, Tennessee, to Willard Shelby and Mattie Lorene (Craig) Parnell. He grew up in Linden, Tennessee, and attended Perry County High School. After graduating in 1958, Boyd went on to attend college at Austin Peay University. He also proudly served his country as a member of the National Guard.
He first met his wife, Kay (Hardaway) Parnell, while both were working at Sears. Boyd, who never overlooked a wise investment, purchased an unneeded swimsuit from Kay’s department to get her attention, and the rest is history. The couple married in 1967, and would have celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on July 16th. Boyd and Kay raised three remarkable children together and were ever-present in the lives of their children and grandchildren, with family meaning the world to them.
Throughout his adulthood, Boyd enjoyed a successful career in Securities and Investments for Prudential Bache and Wiley Bros. He was a long-time supporter of Goodpasture Christian School, where his wife taught for 50 years, and his children and grandchildren attend(ed). He cherished time spent with family, attending various school and sporting events, where he beamed with pride at his loved ones’ accomplishments. Anyone who entered a football game at the school’s campus was greeted at the ticket booth by his gregarious warmth and infectious smile. He also held a strong devotion to his church, Madison Church of Christ, of which he was a member for five decades. His long-standing commitment to both the Shrine Club and the Kiwanis Club were unmatched. Continuing his father’s legacy, he joined the Nashville Shrine Club as an Al Menah Shriner in 1965, and was a member of the Hendersonville chapter from its inception, serving as both President and Ambassador. His devotion to the Nashville Kiwanis Club was equally strong, which he joined in 1969. Throughout his years of service, he was a distinguished recipient of the Wilbur Creighton Kiwanian of the Year and Ralph Brunson Spiritual Alms Awards. Gifted with the power of persuasion, he raised countless dollars and donations in support of these noble organizations.
In his later years, Boyd spent his Saturdays socializing with various friends at his “breakfast clubs” around town. A lover of good food and great company, he rarely entered a local restaurant without being known. A favorite patron at any thrift store, estate sale, or farmer’s market, he never left empty handed – unable to resist a bargain, the chance to purchase an item for a loved one, or the opportunity to support a worthy cause. He watched the landscape of middle Tennessee change throughout his lifetime, and always knew the best way to get to any destination, sharing historical commentary and community news at each turn.
Boyd leaves a legacy of love and generosity for both his family and his community. There will be a void without his vegetable beef stew, Amish fried pies, summer supply of locally grown produce, onion and nut fundraisers, unique collections, and endless stories. He will forever be remembered for his bright smile, quick-witted humor, generosity, and most especially his tireless devotion and love for others.
Boyd was preceded in death by his parents, Shelby and Lorene Parnell. He is survived by his siblings Faye Walker and Kyle Parnell (Linden, TN); uncle Clint Parnell (Goodlettsville, TN); wife Kay Parnell; children Craig (Sarah) Parnell, Brad (Karen) Parnell, and Kristi (Casey) Coggin; his five adoring grandchildren Cole, Bennett, Anna Kate, Nora Beth, and Abigail; as well as other beloved uncles, aunts, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, May 7th at Madison Church of Christ. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00am - 11:00am for family and friends. A Masonic Funeral will be held at the Al Menah Shrine Temple at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Goodpasture Christian School’s Parnell Athletic Center (619 W Due West Ave, Madison, TN 37115).
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