William Raymond "Ray" Parnell

William Raymond (Ray) Parnell passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, at the age of 74.

Born on September 19, 1949, in Sumter, SC, to the late William Raymond Parnell and Eloise Parnell Browne, he was preceded in death by his parents, daughter, Taylor Parnell Lail, his brother, Kenneth Michael Parnell, and his stepfather, James Thomas (Tommy) Browne. He is survived by one granddaughter, Mallory Lail, of Taylorsville, NC; his son-in-law, Stacy Lail, of Taylorsville, NC; and a grandson, Bryce Lail, of Columbia, SC. He is also survived by his brother, Tim Browne (Nancy), of North Myrtle Beach; sister, Tiletha Browne Lane (Lee), of Murrells Inlet; sister-in-law, Esther Parnell Chambers (Mike), of Hartsville, SC; nieces Michelle Parnell Turner (Chris) of Hartsville, SC, Alison Parnell Miller (Ryan) of State College, PA, and Katelyn Browne of Orlando, FL; nephews Preston Lane (Kathryn) of North Myrtle Beach and Austin Browne (Chrissy) of North Myrtle Beach; as well as several great-nieces and great-nephews.

His life journey led him to serve in the US Army, where he faithfully served overseas in Korea. After his military duty, Ray began his career at Sonoco Products, working in the Cone and Sophisticated Film Core departments. He continued to serve in the Hartsville National Guard, retiring after 20 years of service.

Ray was a gentle soul who lived life on his own terms. He found solace at home, enjoying grilling for family and friends, and cherished time spent on his porch and in his yard with his rescue dog, Buddy.

He will be deeply missed, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family will hold a private service to celebrate Ray’s life, in accordance with his wishes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Darlington County Humane Society, a cause close to his heart, P.O. Box 1655, Hartsville, SC 29551.

Norton Funeral Home and Crematory are honored to be of service to the Parnell family.

"Memories are the Legacy of Love"