Hazel Pennell

(From Parker Mortuary)

Hazel Jean Pennell, age 85, of Racine, Missouri, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, after months of declining memory and health. The family would like to thank Dr. Erin Kerns and the staff at Gentiva Hospice for aiding in the comfort of her transition from this life. She entered this life on June 11, 1939 in Joplin, Missouri, daughter of the Rufus and Faye (Aydelot) Harding.

Raised in Joplin, Hazel was a graduate of Joplin High School, class of 1957. Her heart found its match when she married James "Jim" Pennell on September 3, 1966, and together they embarked on a journey of love and partnership that would last fifty-eight years. Hazel and Jim resided in Joplin before moving to Racine, Missouri, in 1990.

Hazel's professional life was marked by her role as an office manager, where she demonstrated her impeccable bookkeeping skills. She made significant contributions to various companies, including Glenn Diesel, Tri-State Motor Transit, Joplin Chamber of Commerce, Foremost Dairies, Famous-Barr, Twin Hills Country Club, Manpower Temporary Services, and Priority Personnel.

Beyond her career, Hazel was deeply involved in her community. She was president of the Neosho Rotary Club, member of Racine Christian Church and Brownie and Cub Scout Leader. Hazel's giving spirit extended to her volunteer work with Freeman Hospital in Neosho and Faithful Friends Animal Advocates.

She was an avid golfer and fisherman, reveling in the serenity and challenge of both pursuits. Her love for her dogs was profound, a testament to her nurturing and compassionate nature. Hazel's journey through life was one of purpose and joy, and she will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.







She is survived by her husband, Jim Pennell, of the home; two daughters, Kandee Day and Wendee Hughes both of Joplin; seven grandchildren, Jennifer Tuttle, Tony Tuttle, Kelsee Robinson, Taylor Hughes, Kendall Day, Konner Day and Holly Ellis; three great grandchildren, Kynlee, Emmy Sue and Anderson Robinson; two sisters, Ginger Fuller of Highland Village, Texas and Melva Rhinehart of Springfield, Illinois; as well as a host of other family and friends. Her parents and two children, Debra Tuttle and John Norman, preceded her in death.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at Parker Mortuary, officiated by Chaplain Craig Price. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Kendall Day, Konner Day, Taylor Hughes, Tony Tuttle, Patrick Tuttle and Logan Ellis. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. in the mortuary chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to Faithful Friends Animal Advocates.