Jean Kline Parnell

PARNELL - Jean Kline Parnell, 94, passed away Friday, August 25, 2017. Jean was born on September 30, 1922 in Pottsville, Pennsylvania to the late John H. Diefenderfer and Helen Rudy Diefenderfer. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Ivan C. Kline and Vincent Parnell and is survived by her three children; son, Gary I. Kline, and his wife Carol, 2 daughters, Judith Kline Pickett, and Cynthia J. Kline and her spouse, Marilyn; one brother, Robert Diefenderfer; 3 grandchildren, Greg Kline, Jamie Kline, and Hilaire Pickett Martin; and 4 great grandchildren River Rush, Sabastian Rush, Ellie Martin, and Emma Martin.

After graduating as salutatorian from Hazleton High School in 1940, Jean attended Gettysburg College graduating in 1944, and was a member of the Delta Gamma Soroity. Her career as an educator started off as a junior high mathematics teacher in Hazleton, PA. After marrying Ivan in 1948, she devoted her life to raising her three children, showing them unconditional love through her Christian faith. Jean lived a full life, enjoying her family and friends, her love of sports, and special trips with Ivan. But, her greatest joy was the precious time with her grandchildren, and great grandchildren up until the end of her life.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 30, in Shepherd of the Woods Lutheran Church, with Pastor George Johnson, Senior Pastor officiating. Interment will follow in Oaklawn Cemetery. Arrangements by Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home, 940 Cesery Blvd. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial gifts to Shepherd of the Woods Lutheran Church, 7860 Southside Blvd. Jacksonville, FL, 32256.