Margaret Ann Parnell

Margaret received an Associate of Arts degree from Alvin Community College and two Bachelor of Arts degrees from Sam Houston State University in Political Science and History, with a minor in German. Early on, she was an elementary school librarian, then became a stay-at-home mom to raise her three children. One of her enduring passions was arts and crafts, and she started her own local business selling her work at local arts and craft shows. She became known for her painted Santa Clauses, which were unique and coveted Christmas décor. She also enjoyed traveling with her late husband, RC Parnell, and other family and friends. She was a devout Christian, and a member of the League City Church of Christ for many years.

Margaret is preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, RC Parnell, as well as her parents, Ralph and Juanita Smalley.

Margaret is survived by her children and sons-in-law: Chris Parnell, Stacey and Robert Stafford, Jennifer and Scot Varnau, and her brother and sister-in-law, Mike and Sydney Smalley, along with Heidi Smalley. Her beloved grandkids, Thomas Stafford, Rebecca Stafford, Daniel Varnau, Aiden Varnau and Gavin Varnau, and her nieces and nephew, Heather Smalley, Allison Steele, and Jonathon Smalley, all hold a special place in her heart. She also dearly loved her friend and elder daughter’s mother-in-law, Peggy Ballard.

A family graveside service will be performed for Margaret on Friday, April 11, 2025 at Restwood Funeral Home and Memorial Park in Clute, Texas at 11:00am. A Celebration of Margaret’s Life will take place at League City Church of Christ in League City, Texas on Friday, April 11, 2025 at 6:00pm.