On Thursday, August 6, 2026, Donald J. "Jimmy" Pannell, at the age of 90 years/one month/16 days, peacefully passed and entered Heaven's gates. His faith has now become sight.

He was born during the Great Depression to Minor P. and Lillie Mae (Parkerson) Pannell, in Tallula, MS/Issaquena County.

Who was this man that was dearly loved and respected by his family and many others?

He was a Christian, making a profession of faith at age 14. A friend of his, Earl Richardson, led him to Christ, and he soon followed in believer's baptism. He was a husband, married to Catherine on April 15, 1966. They spent 55 years together in a happy, loving marriage until her passing in 2021.

He was a daddy, raising two children alongside his wife. They loved, protected and encouraged them, and leave a legacy that will pass along to each generation.

He was a friend, always ready to lend a hand of help. Over the years he had many that meant so much to him, especially a group of RV camping friends called the "Millington Roadrunners." The miles were many and the memories too, and are still talked about today. He also enjoyed many friendships with those he worked with.

He was a patriot. As a young kid, he would watch the B-17's fly the skies and it was his favorite plane. He was gifted with a flight on one in 2019, and described it as "a dream come true!" As an Army veteran, he loved his country and supported the President. He was red, white, and blue through and through. He loved his guns, and did not miss his target. He took his son hunting, and his daughter for a Daddy/daughter day to get gun permits.

He had been a welder, pilot, volunteer fire fighter, and small business owner. He could do many things, and tried to do them well. He truly lived a full life, not taking any day for granted, but rather as a gift.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Catherine; parents, Minor and Lillie Mae Pannell; siblings Juanita Holder (Robert), Elsie Brashier (Frank), and "Junior" (older brother who passed as a toddler); and the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren that have only known heaven and are not forgotten here on earth.

Those left behind are his daughter, Janet Pannell James (Sammy) and son, David Freeman (Gwen); Grandchildren, Samuel James (Lindsey), LeeAnn Montoya (Wili), Sylvia Watkins (Andrew), Hannah Tucker (Ben), Jeffrey Kenyon (Becca); Great-grandchildren, Jada James, Lincoln James, Zaylee Adams Gonzales (Juan), Ava Montoya, Analise "Ana" Montoya, Katherine "Kate" Watkins, Kaiden Watkins, Kameron Watkins, Sam Tucker, Jesse Tucker, Nathan Kenyon, Annie Kenyon; and his special dog, Punkin.

Pastor Jody Johnson from Faith Baptist of Drummonds, TN will be officiating services. Both Donald and Catherine were members of the church. 

Isaiah 40:31 (Daddy's favorite)