Joseph Benjamin “Benjie” Parnell, 50, of Roanoke Rapids, passed away on Sunday, May 11, 2025.

Benjie was a native of Halifax County and was the son of the late Elery and Patricia “Pat” Clary Parnell and was also preceded in death by his brother, Rick Hurst.

He is survived by his loving caregiver of many years, Rose Parker; his brothers, Dennis Parnell and his wife, Cheri of Hampstead, NC and Steve Parnell and his wife, Regina of Swansboro, NC; nieces Elizabeth P. Ward and her husband, Steven, Brooke P. Velkampt and her husband, Tyler, Erica Goudy and her husband, Evan and Roxanne Parnell; nephew, Ryan Thompson and his wife, Jackie; his uncle and aunt, Melvin and Jeri Parnell, special nieces Molly, along with special nephew Gavin, and several great nieces, nephews and cousins.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids with Pastor Matthew Smith officiating.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:45-1:45 PM at Askew Funeral and Cremation Services in Roanoke Rapids, NC.