Robert "Reggie" Reginald Pannell

Beloved husband, father, and friend, Robert Reginald “Reggie” Pannell, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2024, at the age of 78. Born on November 20, 1946, in New York to Robert and Myra Pannell, Reggie lived a life full of love and laughter.

While attending Virginia Union University, Reggie met the love of his life, Patricia “Pat” Pannell. Together, they shared 35 years of marriage filled with joy and mutual admiration. Their union was a testament to deep devotion and love that lasted a lifetime. Reggie proudly earned his master’s degree exemplifying his commitment to education.

A faithful member of The Most Holy Trinity Church, Reggie’s relationship with God was central to his life. His faith was his foundation, and he cherished the community and spiritual connections he made there.

Reggie had a zest for life, with a particular fondness for pipes, cigars, musicals, Broadway shows, and his beloved New York City, where he was born and raised. Among his favorite musicals was Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, which he loved sharing with family. He also adored The X-Files and relished its mysteries and thrills. Some of his favorite moments were taking his eldest grandson to his favorite Cuban cigar lounge and sharing a final meal with all his grandchildren at “our pizza place.”

Reggie loved spending time with his grandsons exploring history, nurturing their curiosity and deepening their knowledge of the past. He was a great patron of his sons’ and grandchildren’s soccer endeavors, proudly supporting them from the sidelines and celebrating their victories with unmatched enthusiasm.

As a professor of business and economics, Reggie inspired countless students with his passion and dedication to education. Affectionately nicknamed “The Professor” by his students, he was loved and admired for his wisdom, humor, and ability to make learning engaging and meaningful.

He cherished his grandchildren deeply, who lovingly referred to him as “Papa.” They brought him immense joy and were a constant source of pride. Reggie also valued his special relationships with his sons-in-law, Hank and Tim, whom he held in high esteem and counted among his closest companions.

A man with a heart as big as his laugh, Reggie’s jolly nature and deep belly laugh were a beacon of warmth to all who knew him. Though introverted by nature, his love for people and his ever-present kindness made him a friend to everyone. His laughter was contagious, his spirit uplifting, and his presence a comfort.

Reggie leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and the simple joy of being with others. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory be a blessing to all who were touched by his life.

Reggie is survived by his daughters, Ray Pannell, Rony Pannell, Jesse Denson & husband Hank, Judith Pannell, and Mary Kaloostian & husband Tim; sons, John Pannell and Frank Pannell; grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as “Papa,” Gaige Jones, Jordan Pannell, Henry "Tre" Denson III, Britain Pannell, Israel Pannell, Jude Kaloostian, Caroline Kaloostian, London Pannell, and Jackson Pannell; niece Tracy Pannell; great-niece Epiphany Pannell; He is preceded in death by his loving wife Patricia “Pat” Pannell; parents, Robert & Myra Pannell and brother Tyrone Pannell.

Rest in peace, Reggie. Your loving presence will forever be in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Reggie, please make donations in his name to the Leukemia Research Foundation at leukemiarf.org.