Clinton D. Parnell

Clinton Dwayne Parnell

Age 76, passed away Thursday December 14, 2023 at Lightways Hospice Home.

Clint was born in Wichita Falls, TX on April 10, 1947.  He was the son of Clyde Clinton and Christina (Motes) Parnell.  Clint grew up in Smackover, Arkansas.  His father was transferred to Joliet in 1960 where he would go on to spend the remainder of his life.

He attended Smackover Grade School, Hufford Junior High School, Joliet, IL and Joliet Township High School.  When JT split into three separate campuses, he convinced his parents to allow him to return and graduate with the class of 1965 in Smackover High School.  Clint continued to keep in touch with several of his Arkansas school classmates and returned many times to attend class reunions.

Clint and Ellen met in October of 1969 and become married on July 15, 1972 at First Presbyterian Church, Joliet, IL.  Where they would go on to spend the next 53 years together.

He was former foreman at Caterpillar (Joliet) retiring in 2001 after 35 years of service. Proud Navy Veteran serving from 1966 to 1970.  Clint was an active member at Messiah Lutheran Church, Joliet, IL.

Survived by his loving wife Ellen (Griffin) Parnell; children Bryce William Parnell and Kathleen Elaine Parnell; brother Clyde Morris (JoAnn) Parnell; sisters and brother-in-law Elaine Brown and Kenneth (Janine) Griffin.  Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

Preceded in death by his parents Clyde Clinton and Christina (Motes) Parnell.

 Lying in state, Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at the Messiah Lutheran Church, with funeral services at 11:00 a.m.   Interment Woodlawn Memorial Park.   Visitation Tuesday 3-7 p.m. at the Blackburn-Giegerich-Sonntag Funeral Home. Memorials to Messiah Lutheran Church or Lightways Hospice would be appreciated.