Ann Shepherd Parmelly

Ann Shepherd Parmelly awoke in heaven Saturday, May 17, 2014. Private family graveside services will be held at Buffalo Gap Cemetery directed by The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 21, at the First Baptist Church Sanctuary with Mike Hughes officiating. Visitation with the family will follow the memorial service at the church. Ann was born the daughter of Mary Lee (Styron) and A.H. Shepherd in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Her family lived in Hobart, Oklahoma before moving to Abilene, Texas in 1941. Ann was a 1947 graduate of Abilene High School and attended Christian College in Columbia, Missouri. Ann married Wade Parmelly November 28, 1948. They resided on their ranch near View, Texas until Wade’s death in July, 1991. Ann then moved into Abilene. Ann always looked as if she had just stepped out of a fashion boutique. She was a beautiful person inside and out. Ann had a host of friends because she was a friend and caretaker of others. She will be missed by her friends as well as others from different walks of life. Ann’s home and yard reflected her love and appreciation of all of the holidays. Whatever the occasion, Ann decorated for it. During the Christmas season we enjoyed the beautiful displays of trees and poinsettias. Valentine Day sported a heart flag. Easter was celebrated with spring flowers symbolizing new life, along with a few rabbits in strategic spots. Patriotism for our USA brought out her flag in July, and during October and November we were blessed with the autumn colors of gold and orange inspired by fall flowers and pumpkins. Ann was a member of the First Baptist Church and Abilene Woman’s Club. Her grandchildren were the delight of her life, and she actively followed their accomplishments. Ann was preceded in death by her parents and her husband. She will remain in cherished memory by her son, Bryan Parmelly and his wife Shawna; grandchildren, Andrea, Abby, Kess and Kade; cousins, Helen Duckett, and Styron Douthit; and longtime friend, Dr. Arthur Hall. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, PO Box 85, Abilene, TX 79604, or Meals on Wheels, PO Box 903, Abilene, TX 79604.