James Ronald Parnell

James Ronald Parnell, 65, of Springdale, Arkansas passed away on Wednesday, September 13, 2017 at Washington Regional Medical Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Ron was born on August 6, 1952, the son of James William Parnell and Merry Christine (Chance) Parnell in Louisville, Kentucky.  He attended Freed-Hardeman College, Oklahoma Christian University and then attended and  graduated from John A. Gupton College  in Nashville, Tennessee 1978 with a degree in Mortuary Science.

Ron is survived by his wife of 43 years Beth, of Springdale; his daughter, Cara Sedberry and husband, Clayton of Springdale; his son Heath Parnell, wife Caitlin and grandson Thaddaeus of Vancouver, British Columbia; his mother, Christine McAllister and sister Linda Silvey of Bristol, Tennessee; as well as many extended family members and many students he considered to be part of his family.

He enjoyed hunting, leatherwork, woodworking and making walking sticks and hunting knives for his friends. His greatest passion, however, was sharing his love of horsemanship and sportsmanship with young people.  He will be remembered for his generosity of spirit, wit and his ability to create a clever and inviting turn of phrase.

A Memorial Service will be held Friday, September 15 at 2:00pm at Robinson Avenue Church of Christ in  Springdale. The family invites friends to remain after to share memories and celebrate Ron’s life.  All are welcome to attend and celebrate Ron's life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Courage Therapeutic Riding Center, PO Box 9976, Fayetteville, AR 72703.