Elpida Julia Parnell

It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to Elpida Julia Parnell 81,affectionately known as "Petie," who graced this world on June 19, 1943, and peacefully departed on August 23, 2024, surrounded by her devoted family until her final moments.

A cherished resident of Binghamton, NY, and Tampa, FL, Elpida was a beacon of love and light to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Elpida leaves behind a legacy of unwavering love and devotion that can never be replaced.

She joins her beloved parents, Michael and Nellie Saxon, her dear brother James Saxon, sister Elizabeth Gay, and her cherished husband Thomas Edgar Jr., whom she shared 61 years of unconditional love and companionship.

Elpida's spirit lives on through her three adoring children, Deanna Yanes (Vincent), Dean Parnell (Katherine), and Michele Duarte (Edward), as well as her loving sister Rosemary Russell ( Burl)

and many special nieces,nephews and cousins. She was a pillar of strength and tenderness,

a very proud grandmother to Andrew,Ashley,Anthony,Joshua,Riley,Savannah, Derek,Tyler,Brittany,Amani,Mariano and Dominik and a doting great-grandmother to Xiomara, Xander,Alaia,Emilia,Thomas,Glo,Josiah, and Alister. Her family was her everything, the very heartbeat that gave rhythm to her life.

In her professional journey, Elpida served as a committed retail manager and subsequently earned recognition as a district manager across multiple retail organizations in her life. Her time at Bathtique, followed by her retirement from Janie and Jack, exemplifies her steadfast work ethic and leadership qualities.. However, it was in the warmth of her home among loved ones where she found the greatest joy.

She cherished family gatherings and visits, took pleasure in cooking, getting her hair done weekly,enjoyed watching t.v shows and films, and had a strong affinity for reading mystery novels. Her enthusiasm extended to collecting Garfield and Angel memorabilia, as well as finding joy in the simple act of watching the Hallmark channel or supporting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, creating delightful experiences for all fortunate enough to share in those moments with her.

Petie’s heart overflowed with compassion and generosity. A friend to all, she welcomed strangers as friends and embraced them as family. The matriarch of a lovingly woven tapestry of kinship, her legacy lives on in the multitude of hearts she touched with her boundless love and sincerity.

In the quiet moments when we feel her absence, let us find solace in the memories of her laughter, her warmth, and her enduring love. May her gentle spirit guide us, and May her love and memory be forever etched in our hearts.

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