Opal Proctor Fennell

Opal Proctor Fennell, lovingly known as “Granny” to so many, was born on February 28, 1929, in Pedro, Florida, and went home to be with the Lord on April 5, 2026, at the age of 97, in her hometown of Pedro.

Opal lived a long and meaningful life defined by kindness, faith, and service to others. She truly had a heart of gold and was always giving of herself, whether through a warm meal, a helping hand, or a listening ear. She found great joy in the simple and beautiful things in life—baking, cooking, sewing, crocheting, knitting, reading, gardening, fishing and canning. Many will fondly remember her famous homemade pickles, made from Aunt Pearl’s cherished recipe.

She was a hard worker and had numerous jobs throughout her life including the packing plant in Weirsdale, Double J Meats, and Barnett Bank, to name a few. She instilled the value of hard work into those around her.

Opal was the daughter of Sydney Vernon and Elma Estella Proctor. Upon the passing of her mother on July 9, 1941, Opal was blessed with a “bonus mom”, Violet Proctor, until her passing on May 18, 2000. As the daughter of a preacher, she was raised in the Southern Baptist faith and remained a devoted Christian throughout her life, guided by strong values and unwavering belief.

Opal excelled academically and graduated as valedictorian of Summerfield High School in 1946. She later married the love of her life, Joe Perry, and together they built a family, raising four children and creating a home filled with love, faith, and enduring traditions.

She married Sam Fennell in 1975, after Joe passed in 1974.

Sam and Opal were married for 22 years, until his passing in 1997. They enjoyed spending time together fishing, being outdoors, and spending time with the grandkids.

Opal’s legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and deep devotion to her family and her faith. She touched countless lives with her generosity and warmth, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. She was always giving to others, both near and far. Whether she was crafting Halloween costumes, sewing aprons to send to Cuba, baking for cake auctions, or making beanies for everyone she knew, she generously shared her talents to bring joy and comfort to others. Her lifetime of kindness toward others was reflected in the care and compassion she received in return—especially in her final years. She was deeply blessed by the love surrounding her, including the devoted, attentive care of her granddaughter Melissa, who made it possible for Granny to remain in the comfort of her home until the very end.

She leaves behind a family who will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude.

Opal was preceded in death by her first husband Joe Perry (1974), second husband Sam Fennell (1997),her son Ronnie, and her siblings Cleo Clinger, Naomi Robinson, Vernon Proctor and Art Proctor. She is survived by her sister Linda Denson, three children, Margaret Schneider, David Perry (Peggy), Melinda Perry and daughter in law Sydnia Perry, five granddaughters, Rhonda (Scott) Black, Melissa Music McNeilly, Amy (Shawn) Davis, Amanda (Tim) Carl, Megan Schneider, 14 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great grandchildren She also leaves behind two step daughters Gail Mason and Nora Cochran, 9 step grandchildren, and 6 step great-great grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was a member of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Arrangements will be announced at a later date.