George "Buddy" Parnell, Jr.

George Buddy Parnell, Jr. passed away suddenly on Saturday, September 26th, 2026. A visitation is being held for him Tuesday evening, September 29th from 6:00 to 8:00pm at Belk Funeral Home. Also, the family will receive visitors at other times at Keith & Jolynn Parnell’s home located at 612 Heathwood Drive in Darlington. Wednesday September 30th his funeral service will take place at 11:00am in The Free Will Baptist Bible Church of Darlington.

Buddy was born in Darlington County to George Parnell Sr. and Helen Hood Parnell. He proudly served his country in the United States Army for 23 years before continuing his career in security at H.B. Robinson Nuclear Power Plant, where he dedicated more than 20 years of service. A devoted Gamecock football fan , he had been a member of the Gamecock Club for 32 years. Buddy enjoyed cheering on his beloved team and rarely missed an opportunity to show his Gamecock pride. When he wasn't watching football, he could often be found enjoying a good book, as reading was another of his favorite pastimes.

Buddy leaves behind his son, Keith (Jolynn) Parnell; his grandchildren, Brandon (Miranda) Parnell, KaDee Parnell, and Tobin (Jurmie) Thompson, Taylor (Kendrick McCall) Deas of his sister, Linda Faye Hodge "Pig"; and his nieces and nephews, Melissa Griggs, Wendy Lintvedt, Michelle Collins, Joey Hodge, DeeDee Chisolm, and .

In addition to his parents, Buddy was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Billy Joe Hodge.