James Cleatus "Junior" Pannell, Jr

 James Cleatus "Junior" Pannell, Jr. ,62, was destined to become our beloved husband, father, "papaw" and friend and on Saturday November 17, 2018, we gave back to God this gift that he so graciously shared with us.
  Funeral Services remembering the life of Junior will be at 11 AM Monday November 19 in The Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral Home with his pastor, Bro. Clay Stegall of Dumas Baptist Church officiating. Personal Reflections will be given by long time family friend, Bro. Doc Shelton. Burial will follow in Paynes Chapel Cemetery near Ripley.
  Junior was born July 1, 1956 in Ripley, MS, the only child of the late James Cleatus Pannell, Sr. and Bertha Lee "Winkie" McGee Pannell. He was a 1975 graduate of Pine Grove High School and was married on March 11, 1976 to his devoted wife, the former Lana Mauney, who survives.
  Junior was a valued employee of Auto Specialists in Corinth for 25 years before his retirement. In later years he was employed by Food Giant and The Tippah County Hospital where he developed many lasting friendships that remain until this day.
  A lifetime resident of Tippah County and a member of Dumas Baptist Church, Junior was a "people person" who took time to always help others. His smile and outgoing personality was contagious and he loved sharing stories, jokes and humor with those he came in contact with.
  He will be remembered for his love of motorcycles. Junior could often be seen traveling on his motorcycle taking a leisurely drive on area roads with his wife often close by.
  In his free time, Junior found pleasure in fishing, hunting, gardening and woodworking. A talented craftsman, he enjoyed making a variety of art for his friends and family. His greatest passion in life centered around his six grandchildren. He loved babysitting, watching them play sports and encouraged them to work hard. Junior leaves behind many memories to be cherished by his family and they find comfort in knowing they will meet again.
  Visitation for Junior will continue Monday until service time at The Ripley Funeral Home.
  In addition to his wife of 42 years, those left to honor his memory include his children, Brandi Ketchum (Michael) and Russell Pannell (Liza) both of Pine Grove and Samantha Unz (Ron) of Columbus, MS, his six wonderful grandchildren, Jenna and John Carter Pannell, Brandon and Lauralee Ketchum, Leah and Riley Unz, his loyal canine companion, "Cam", a host of family members and many friends.

The Ripley Funeral Home is honored to serve the Pannell family and invites you to share memories.

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