Bessie Kelley Parnell, age 94, of Ridgeland, SC, passed away on February 6th, 2026. She was born on November 15th, 1931 to the late Mattie Lou and Clifford Kelley.

Bess wore many hats and had varied passions throughout her life. Her first marriage was to the late Jesse R. Mock in 1946. She was later married to the late, James Monroe "Jim" Parnell. Bess held many positions as a young professional. She was a devoted member of Ridgeland Baptist Church and led the Esther Sunday School class faithfully for many years. She was the secretary for the Jasper County Council on Aging for many years as well. She also served in many capacities for Eastern Star at the Mary Heyward Chapter #124 in Ridgeland, SC ending with service as the Worthy Matron. She was also a masterful baker with her specialty being caramel cake. She was a competitive square dancer, world traveler, and avid seamstress. Most importantly, she was a loving mother and grandmother and she enjoyed spending time with her family.

Bess is preceded in death by her parents, Mattie Lou and Clifford Kelley and her husband, Jim Parnell. She is survived by her children Amy Mock Duke (Drexel), Sam Mock (Chyleen), and Harold Mock (Diane). She is also survived by her granddaughters Katie Mock Pittinger (DeKelly), Devin Mock Wohlford (Justin), Tyler Duke Edenfield (Taylor), Bailey Duke-Pulido (Jorge) and Payton Duke Seals (Eric), and her great-granddaughters; Britton Kelley Edenfield and Anna Gail Pittinger.

Bess' family would like to thank Regency Hospice and the staff of The Gardens Senior Living in Statesboro, Georgia for their compassionate care for Bess over the last year. A special thanks should be given to Kelly Mcafee at Regency Hospice for her tireless efforts in caring for Bess and all of the residents at The Gardens.

Honorary Pallbearers will be the members of her beloved Esther Sunday School class of Ridgeland Baptist Church. Acting Pallbearers will be Drexel Duke, Taylor Edenfield, Eric Seals, Jorge Pulido-Rubio, and DeKelly Pittinger.

Her services will be held at Ridgeland Baptist Church on Tuesday, February 10th, 2026. The viewing will begin at 1:00 PM with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 PM. The graveside service will be held immediately after at Ridgeland Cemetery. Sauls Funeral Home will be handling all funeral arrangements.

In lieu of flowers a donation can be made in Bess’ honor to: Hope1312 Collective hope1312co.org