Erick D.

Parnell

Erick Dezal Parnell Jr., affectionately known as "E.J", was born on January 31, 2006 to parents, Erick Parnell Sr., and Andye-Nate' Poellnitz-Parnell. He was a 2024 graduate of Bowsher High School with plans to pursue a career in HVAC, along with the long-term goal of becoming a barber and opening his own shop.

These two career paths were a reflection of his hardworking spirit and desire to serve others. A true enthusiast at heart, E.J. would spend countless hours learning about cars and their inner workings while dreaming of the next "ride" he hoped to drive. He was also looking forward to working on the 1971 Riviera his dad had gifted him.

E.J. also loved sports, especially basketball and football. He played football for the Thunderbolts as a child, and basketball for several leagues throughout the city including JRM and Bowsher. He was a loyal fan of Oklahoma City Thunder and the Dallas Cowboys cheering them on through every win and loss, alongside his dad. His fondest

memories were of attending live sports games with family members.

E.J. brought joy, laughter, and light to all who had the privilege of knowing him with a calm, gentle demeanor and a warm smile that could brighten any room. He touched the lives of family and friends and all who crossed his path. E.J. cherished God and time spent with family. Holiday gatherings were among his happiest moments filled with tradition, new and old, that meant so much to him. He will forever be remembered as a beloved son, brother, nephew, grandson, cousin, and friend.

E.J. was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, William E. Poellnitz Sr. and Ann Poellnitz. He leaves to cherish his wonderful memories father, Erick Parnell Sr, mother, Andye-Nate' Poellnitz-Parnell; paternal grandparents, Curtis (Deb) Parnell, and Bertha Parnell; sisters, Autumn Parnell and Raegan Conley; aunts, Deondra (Isaac)

Poellnitz-Coleman, Shannon (Keith) Poellnitz, and Curtilya (Philemon) Abatateye; uncles, William E. (Leslie) Poellnitz Jr. and Sheridan Parnell, and a host of loving cousins, and friends.

The family wishes to acknowledge Ragan Conley and family, and Keith Mims who shared quality time and provided guidance to E.J. We would also like to acknowledge UTMC ICU nurses, Emily and Ali, who cared diligently for E.J. We are forever in your debt. Thank you.