Marion Parnell West Sr.

DOVER - Marion Parnell West Sr., 89, passed away July 13, 2013, at Lenoir Memorial Hospital in Kinston. Parnell was born November 6, 1923 in Craven County, the youngest son of Zeb Vance and Bessie Ann West. He was a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and husband. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Eula Mae Cox and his daughter-in-law, Terry West. Surviving him are his son, Marion Parnell West, Jr. of Dover; his daughter, Glenda West Fulmer and her husband Dick of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; and his son Randall Lynn West and his wife Diane of La Grange; grandchildren, Scott West and his wife Patti of Williamston, Marty West and his wife Tracy of Kinston, Blaire Sullivan and her husband Kevin of Huntersville, Tonya Lee Oberhammer of Myrtle Beach, S.C., Shane West of Raleigh, and Dax Jennings and her husband Stuart of Lexington, Ky. Parnell is also survived by seven great-grandchildren, his brother Zeb West and his sister Charlotte Murphy. Parnell attended Contentnea School and spent his many years of working life as a farmer. He was a life-long member of Bethany United Methodist Church (established 1891) and served as treasurer for 22 years. Born and living his life in the house built by his grandfather (James L. West), his avocation was being a family historian and he delighted in remembering and sharing details of the family history. Often relatives from far away would visit to discuss information with Parnell. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff and the doctors who treated him so well, to his special neighbor Ernestine Sanford, and to his caregiver Cathy Roberts. Visitation will be held at Howard-Carter Funeral Home from 7 to 9 p.m., on July 15, 2013, and other times at the home of his son, Marion at 13510 Hwy 55 West, Dover, N.C. 28526. Parnell's funeral will be held Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at 3 p.m. at Howard-Carter Funeral Home. Burial will follow the funeral at Bethany United Methodist Church cemetery. Memorials may be made to Bethany United Methodist Church, c/o Alice Daugherty, 1610 Hwy 55 East, Kinston, N.C. 28501. Howard-Carter Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. On-line condolences may be sent to howardandcarter.com. Sign the guest book at Kinston.com. (Paid obituary)