Willard "June" Parnell

Willard “June” Parnell, Jr., 75, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his residence on August 19, 2025.

Born on January 12, 1950, in Crites, West Virginia, June was the beloved son of Willard and Thelma Parnell.

June graduated from East High School in 1968 and went on to attend Bliss College, where he earned a certificate in real estate principles in 1979. He was employed at Bryden Place Nursing Home and later with COTA Transit, where he eventually retired. After retirement, he especially enjoyed going on cruises with his beloved wife, siblings, and Father.

June will be remembered by his family and friends for his sense of humor, fun-loving personality, and his deep love for his pet, Kobe. Friends and family will forever treasure the many ways he brightened their lives—whether through his jokes, storytelling, or his daily walks around the neighborhood to greet others and check in on family and friends, by encouraging and sharing loving words with them.

He is survived by his father, Willard Parnell Sr.; daughters, Shirece “Punkin” Parnell, Danielle “Nelly” Hurdle-Parnell, Diana (Omar) Malone, Debbie (Ron) Kendricks, and Toni (Ronnie) Fryar; sons, Michael White, Dion Denson, and Steve (Tracey) Wright; siblings, Freda (Harold) White, Douglas (Lisa) Parnell, Carolyn Parnell; and a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

June was preceded in death by his dearly beloved wife of twenty-two years, Cathrine Parnell; mother, Thelma Parnell; daughters, LeSonya (Boo) Parnell and LoriWright; son, DaCorey Hurdle; grandson, Saadiq Teague; and brother, Derrick Parnell.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made directly to June’s family.

June’s life was truly a gift to all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.