Emma Ray Parnell

EMMA RAY PARNELL, 79, passed away Wednesday, October 26, 2022, at her residence.

A native of Chester, SC, Emma was a daughter of Otto Van Buren Ray, Sr. and Grace Grant Ray.  She graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Nursing and was a Registered Nurse. She had lived in Aiken since 1972, working at the Aiken Health Department for 16 years and then for 18 years was the Nurse Manager with the SC Department of Corrections in Trenton.  Her proudest accomplishment was starting the Certified Nursing Assistant course at Aiken Technical College where she wrote curriculum and taught in the early 1980’s.  Emma was a member of South Aiken Presbyterian Church, serving 3 terms as an Elder.  She also formerly taught 8 and 9 year old Sunday School and was a Den Mother for Boy Scout Troop 103.  She was an avid Gamecock Fan, attending every home game for 39 years.  She was also a long-time member of the Aiken County Gamecock Club.

Survivors include her granddaughter, April Jasmin (Jay); three brothers, O. W. Ray (Patricia Franklin), Aiken, Wilbur G. Ray (Cindy), Prosperity, SC, David G. Ray (Denise), Sandersville, GA; her best friend, Jean Wilkins, Aiken and a number of nieces and nephews.

Emma was preceded in death by her three children, Jane Parnell, Chris Parnell and Andy Parnell.

The family will receive friends Sunday, October 30th beginning at noon at South Aiken Presbyterian Church.  The funeral service will follow at 1 o’clock with The Reverend Jason Hammersley and Marth Ebel officiating.  Interment will be in Southlawn Cemetery.

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC