Helen Jeanette Ward Parnell, age 78, of Lumberton, passed away Tuesday, October 3, 2017. She was born November 3, 1938 in Robeson County to the late Samuel Ward, Sr. and the late Mary Helen Branch Ward. She will be remembered for her many years as a legal secretary for Musselwhite, Musselwhite, Musselwhite, Grantham, & Branch Law Firm.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Elton A. Parnell; and her sister, Nonie Pittman.

She is survived by her son, Mike Parnell and wife Gennie of Whiteville; her grandson, Bryce Parnell of Whiteville; two brothers: Joe Ward (Eunice) and Sammy Ward (Peggy), all of Lumberton; and several nieces and nephews.

A time of visitation will take place on Thursday, October 5, 2017, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Floyd Mortuary & Crematory, Inc.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 6, 2017, at 11:00 AM at Gardens of Faith Cemetery with Rev. Michael Bowen officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to East Lumberton Baptist Church, 201 Old Whiteville Road, Lumberton, NC 28358.