Walter C. Parnell, 74, of East Palatka, died on Sunday, Nov. 4, 2012, at his residence. Born and raised in Columbus, Ga., Walter attended Georgia Southwestern State University and later enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served as an Air Traffic Controller in Japan. After his service he attended The University of Georgia where he earned a bachelor"s degree in business administration. Walter worked for more than 30 years as a sales and marketing representative and in the Operations Department for Texaco and Star Enterprises, retiring from Chevron in 1998. He retired to the Putnam County area 12 years ago from Coral Springs, Fla. He enjoyed boating, water sports and collecting "just about anything." Walter was a devoted family man, and a loyal Georgia Bulldog. He loved to laugh and was known as the life of the party. He was a former member of the Texaco Vice Presidents Club, and was a member of First Baptist Church of Hastings.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Candace "Candy" Parnell of East Palatka; daughters, Jennifer Roberts of East Palatka, Heather Karbowsky and her husband, Walter, of Flagler Beach; and granddaughters, Taylor Grace Karbowsky and Allyson Alexis Roberts.
A memorial service with military honors will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 17, at First Baptist Church of Hastings with Rev. Lucas Cunningham officiating. Interment will follow at a later date at Jacksonville National Cemetery. Flowers are gratefully declined, but those wishing may make a donation to assist the family, c/o St. Johns Family Funeral Home, 385 State Road 207, St. Augustine, FL 32084, or to the charity of your choice.
St. Johns Family Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Bob Cooper
November 5, 2021
Sonny will always be missed from all his friends. His Tragic ending is still a terrible memory . His smile , voice , and antics are always in our hearts . God Bless the Family and keep you Close during these days .
ROBERT (BOB) COOPER
November 5, 2020
Walter (Sonny) Parnell is still missed by all that knew him . Always smiling , laughing , full of life . May knowing where he is now , be some comfort to all. He is with his parents , and loved ones there -- My Brother , Mom, Dad . Sonny is telling jokes , and waiting for US . May God be with the family on this difficult day .
Bob Cooper
November 5, 2019
Candice -- I hope you are doing well? It is hard to believe it has been so long . Sonny always had a smile , and good heart . He Lives ON in Heaven . He is at Peace , and living his eternal life to its fullest . He and My Brother , Frank, are really enjoying their life together again . He is with his Mom and Dad , and My Parents . I am so blessed Sonny crossed my life as Young Child (7 years old) Many fond memories from those days, of which Sonny was always a part of them . Hope all is well , with you and the children .
Thomas George
November 18, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss. Prayers for your family from ours.
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Nathaniel Williams, Jr.
November 13, 2012
To Candice and Family:
My wife Beverly and I, were stunned to read about the tragedy. Walt was always full of life and a fun guy to be around at Texaco. The same joy was evident when I last talked with him. We did expect to see both of you next month in Howey-In-The-Hills, where the Texaco Old Farts convene bi-annually. He loved to say, "I don't know anything and I can prove it." My wife is going to miss that question, "Are you behaving yourself?" We truly hope he is now where can be eternally happy.
Nathaniel Williams, Jr.
Woody Carlson
November 13, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and the family!
Robert S Cooper
November 11, 2012
Candy and family.. I am still shocked with news of Sonny's Death. After my brother, Frank Cooper, died Sonny sorta became my brother. Mom and Dad felt like Sonny was part of our family also. Sonny is now with his family, my Mom / Dad/ Brother and many others. May the scriptures be a comfort to ya'll : John 14:1-7. May you feel God's Loving Arms around you as these difficult days approach and beyond. Please keep in touch . Bob Cooper
Angela Cooper Wolfe
November 11, 2012
To the family of Sonny Parnell : My fatber, Frank Cooper, spoke fondly of his memories of Sonny and his family. I know they were life long friends, I even remember when Dad called Sonny in Coral Springs and went to visit, when I was living in Fort Lauderdale. Although my Dad has died, I know he is happy to be reunited with Sonny. May God Bless You and Comfort you at this time in the Loss.
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St. John's Family Funeral Home & Crematory385 SR 207, Saint Augustine, FL 32084

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