Edna Griggs Graham Parnell

Ms. Edna Griggs Graham Parnell, age 91, of Linden, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026 at Perry County Nursing Home.

Born on August 17, 1934 in Sugar Tree, Tennessee, to Gilbert and Golden Griggs. Edna lived a rich and full life marked by deep devotion to her family, a joyful laugh, and a resilient spirit that touched everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husbands, Jack Denton Graham and Clovis “Pee Wee” Parnell; her son, Jack Denton Graham, Jr.; and her son-in-law, Terry Treadwell. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Golden and Gilbert Griggs; sisters, Imogene (Earl) Jordan, Ava Odle, Zana (Tommy) Maness, Nell (Larry) Denham, and Patsy (Joe Bill) Stewart; and her brother, Thomas Griggs. Her days were brightened by daily conversations with her beloved sister, Lydia Burton of Dallas, Texas.

Edna grew up in Decatur County, attending Oak Grove Church/School in Cozette, TN. before graduating from Parsons High School. Shortly after graduation, she began working at Salant, Inc. in Parsons, Tennessee. She later met the love of her life, Jack Denton Graham, and the two were married in 1955 before making their home in Linden, Tennessee.

Together they attended First Christian Church, where they began raising their family. Edna remained a faithful and devoted member of First Christian Church for more than 70 years. She possessed a true servant’s heart, and caring for others was one of her God-given gifts. She deeply loved her church, her community, and especially her role as mother, Nana, and Grand Nana.

Her warmth, wisdom, generosity, and selfless nature left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughters, Deana (Ron) Nichols of Franklin, Tennessee; Rhonda (Tim) Friar of Knoxville, Tennessee; and Gaye Treadwell of Linden, Tennessee; as well as her stepdaughter, Teresa Weierman.

Edna took great pride in her grandchildren: Kari (Joe) Jessie, Ryan (Margaret) Nichols, Graham (Kallen) Nichols, Rebecca (Wes) Murray, Rachel (Jeff) Cloyd, Tiffany (John) Richards, and Courtney (Brian) Marrs. She is also survived by step-grandchildren, Gentry (Brandy) Long and Jason (Nicole) Long.

She was especially proud to be called “Grand Nana” by her 16 great-grandchildren: Anna and Halle Jessie; Maddax, Rhett, and Jack Marrs; Thomas, Howie, Baker, and Andrew Nichols; Malachi, Tyler, and Eli Murray; Hazel and Bennett Cloyd; Faith and Jagger Richards and step-great-granddaughter, Harper Long.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful staff of Perry County Nursing Home, and the many friends and family members who cared so lovingly for Edna during her time there..

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Edna’s memory to her beloved church:

First Christian Church
168 W. Main Street
Linden, TN 37096

May her memory continue to live on through the many lives she blessed with love, kindness, and unwavering faith.

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