1931
Bette
2016
Bette Parnell
February 15, 1931 — January 8, 2016
Bette Wood Parnell passed away on January 8, 2016. Bette was born February 15, 1931 in Chester, SC, the Thomas H. and Mabel Steading Wood. She graduated from China Grove High School and from Winthrop College in Rock Holl, SC. She married Davey Lee (Buck) Parnell on June 23, 1956 and he preceded her in death in 1975. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Mabel Wood; two brothers, James C. Wood and William F. Wood; four sisters, Mary Hedgepath, Martha McSwain, Evelyn Cummins and Nan Miller. She retired from Cannon Mills as an Executive Secretary to the CEO after 42 years of service. After retiring from Cannon, she was the secretary at Calvary Lutheran Church for 12 years. At the time of her death, she was serving as Calvary's Financial Secretary.
Bette is survived by her loving and caring nieces and nephews, Rebecca Highsmith of Washington DC, Gail & the late Mac Lancaster of Lawndale, NC, Ronnie & Betsy McSwain of Ahoskie, NC and Barry & Emily Wicker of Concord. She is also survived by a host of other nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.
Bette was an antique buff and loved playing bridge. She grew up in China Grove and joined Calvary Lutheran Church in 1986 after she moved to Concord in 1985.
She was an active and involved member of Calvary Lutheran Church for many years, working with various committees and Women of the ELCA of Calvary, and enjoying her many friends there.
The family will receive friends at Calvary Lutheran Church on Sunday, January 10, 2016, from 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm with the service immediately following, officiated by Rev. Dr. Deborah Frye and Rev. Ronald W. McSwain.
Memorials may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church at 950 Bradley Street, Concord, NC 28025 or the charitable organization of one's choice.
Hartsell Funeral Home is serving the Parnell family.
Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com
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