Sarah Nell Parnell

Sarah Nell Lackey Parnell, 89, passed away on August 22nd, 2025, after a prolonged illness. She is predeceased by her parents, Leroy Houston Lackey, Sr. and Celeste Burgess Lackey; her husband, Ralph Erskine Parnell, Sr.; her brother, Leroy Houston "Buddy" Lackey, Jr. (Nikki); and her son, David Lee Parnell (Janet). Sarah is survived by her two sisters, Rebecca Muller (Carl) and Gloria Haynes (Elmer); her two sons, Ralph Erskine "Rusty" Parnell, Jr. (Lucy); and Brian Steele Parnell; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, who all meant so much to her.

Sarah held a Master's Degree in Education and taught second grade for ten years before quitting to become a fulltime mother after Ralph finished his Doctorate in Education. She would be the first to tell you that after dealing with raising three boys and Ralph's various large gardens, she embraced a more sedentary life. She and Ralph loved Janice Holt Giles books and traveled to her home place as well as other travels throughout their marriage including their favorites: the Ozarks, the Midwest, and Eufaula.

Sarah loved hearing stories and seeing pictures of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She leaves behind a legacy of love and memories for those left to treasure as we navigate this side of Heaven without her.

A visitation will be held at Gray Brown-Service Mortuary in Anniston, AL on September 13th, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., to celebrate Sarah's life.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choosing.