Gail Sapp Parnell

Gail Ann Sapp Mitchell Parnell, age 86, died Monday, November 7, 2022.

Gail was born in Winston Salem, NC, the daughter of Lou Neal and Arthur Sapp. She is remembered by her children, Steve Mitchell, Laurie Hutchens, and Devlin McNeil, by her grandchildren Ambien, Jacob, Hannah, Jairus, Kelsey, and Taylor, and by her great grandchildren Braelyn, Michael, Jake, Saylor, Olivia, and newly born Duna.

Gail graduated from Reynolds High School and Cabarrus Nursing School. She was a registered nurse all her professional life, working in numerous high-tech positions as well as positions where she cared for marginalized patients, those with AIDS and mental illness. In her retirement, she volunteered at Samaritan Ministries and many nursing homes and senior centers, often playing piano. Gail loved Wake Forest football, sneaking sweets to her grandchildren, and movies. She preferred Brad Pitt to George Clooney. Gail suffered all her life with mental illness but was more damaged by the stigma and guilt associated with disease than the disease itself. She had a great laugh. Gail enjoyed talking to strangers, to the occasional embarrassment of her children. She would drive around the lot for twenty minutes looking for the best parking space. Gail was a terrible cook; the less said about that the better.

A graveside service was held at Olivet Moravian Church on Saturday, November 12, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Matthew Allen officiating.

Gail loved her family unreservedly. We will remember her with stories and memories and much affection.

The family request memorials be made to Olivet Moravian Church, 2205 Olivet Church Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27106.

The family would like to thank Bob at Willowbrook Rehabilitation and Care Center in Yadkinville for his care and attention.