Thomas Herman Pannell

Tupelo- Thomas Herman Pannell, age 78, passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at North Mississippi Medical Center. Born on July 28, 1947, to Johnny Pannell and Sallie Blair Pannell, Thomas lived a life marked by faith, dedication, and a genuine love for people.

Thomas built a respected career as an engineer, bringing intelligence, skill, and integrity to his work. He carried himself with confidence and pride, always known as a sharp dresser who believed in presenting himself well wherever he went.

A devoted member of New Lebanon Church, Thomas faithfully served as both a deacon and a Sunday school teacher. His commitment to his church family reflected the depth of his faith and his desire to guide and encourage others in their walk with Christ. He was a wonderful Christian man whose kindness and steady spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Thomas had a zest for life and found joy in simple pleasures. He loved to fish, ride four wheelers, play golf, and spend time having fun with family and friends. He was quick with a joke, naturally jolly, and something of a politician at heart, able to strike up a conversation with anyone. Truly, he never met a stranger. His warm personality and generous spirit made others feel welcome and valued.

Above all, Thomas will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, and the strong faith that guided his life. His legacy of love, laughter, and service will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.

His fiancé, Alfrieda Starnes, shared these words in remembrance of him: “Thomas, you brought joy, laughter, and love into my life in a way that words can hardly express. You were not only my partner but my closest friend, and the memories we shared will stay with me forever. Though my heart misses you deeply, I find comfort knowing your faith carried you home. Until we meet again, I will carry your love with me always.”

He is survived by his fiancé, Alfrieda Starnes; children, Anthony Lipsey of Milwaukee, Michigan, Steven Union of Kansas City, Missouri, and Thomas Union of Kansas City, Missouri; siblings, Linda Shelton of Pontotoc, Johnny Pannell of Kansas City, Missouri, Alfreida Douglas of Kansas City, Missouri, Ruby Berry of Chesterville, and Suzy Vaughn of Longview; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a host of other family and great friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnny and Sallie Pannell; brothers, Jessie Pannell, William Pannell, and Sammie T. Pannell; and sisters, Mary Hardin and Octavio Pannell.

Visitation will be 11 a.m. until service time Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Pegues, Tupelo.

Services in honor of Mr. Pannell will be 1 p.m. Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the Jefferson Street Chapel of Pegues with Rev. Daniel Hill officiating.

Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather for a repass at Mt. Vernon Chapel, 820 Mt. Vernon Drive, Tupelo, MS, where they will continue celebrating Thomas’s life and sharing fellowship together.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff of North Mississippi Medical Center for the compassionate care shown to Thomas during his illness, as well as to the many friends, church members, and loved ones who offered prayers, encouragement, and support throughout his courageous battle with cancer.

Expressions of sympathy and fond memories may be made at www.PeguesFuneralHome.com.