Mary Kathryn Cate Parnell, 100, passed away peacefully on April 28. Mary was a loving and warm wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

She married Felix Parnell, her high school sweetheart, and together they raised three beautiful children in Gadsden. She often commented on how much she enjoyed raising her babies. She also had seven grandchildren, whom she loved having around, and she cherished their help during the summers with the large gardens she and Felix tended.

Mary was well known for her welcoming nature and never met a stranger. She and Felix enjoyed helping others and were often the first to bring food or other provisions to those in need. She truly loved nothing more than having a house full of friends to cook for and host.

Mary deeply loved her faith. As one of Jehovah's Witnesses, she enjoyed sharing it by studying the Bible with many in the community and surrounding areas. She never missed a meeting at the Kingdom Hall until her health began to decline at the age of 99 and a half.

Her love of music and singing was another joy she and Felix shared, harmonizing together in several choruses and at the Kingdom Hall.

She is survived by her son, John F. Parnell Jr. (Patricia); son-in-law, Michael Hickman; grandsons, Jacob John Clayton (Bobbi), William Clayton, Jonathan Hickman (Jessica), David Hickman (Amanda), Josiah Hickman (Jenna), and Daniel Parnell (Rocia); granddaughter, Melanie Rogers (Eric); five great-granddaughters; one great-grandson; and five nieces and five nephews.

She will be greatly missed, but we look forward to a future resurrection and her being among "the meek who will inherit the earth."

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 237 Goldenrod Avenue, Gadsden, AL 35901. Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. until the time of service. Eric Rogers will officiate the service. Burial will follow at Crestwood Cemetery.

Special thanks to Alabama Hospice Care and all the associates who provided such wonderful care and support for Mary.