Parnilla Carpenter

Parnilla Royre (Parmer) Carpenter, age 66, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at her Pine City home on July 1, 2026. She courageously lived with cancer for 10 years.

Parnilla was born September 30, 1959 to Roy and Pauline (Feldhaus) Parmer in Covington, Kentucky. She grew up in Pine City, collecting life-long friends from her time at Pine City Elementary, Broadway Junior High, and Southside High School with the class of 1977. She loved spending summers in her beloved Kentucky with her family.

Parnilla was most recently employed at Wegmans in Elmira. Whether creating colorful floral arrangements, decorating beautiful cakes, or advising which cheese to pair, she left both customers and co-workers smiling.

As a relative of acclaimed artist J. Lars Hoftrup, Parni relished her creative heritage. An artist herself and supporter of the local arts community, Parni filled her life with evocative artwork and its gifted creators. Parnilla’s works adorn the public signs that welcome visitors to the town of Southport.

Parni’s appreciation of beauty carried over into the natural world. She was an avid gardener and delighted in all plants and animals, whether it be her prize-winning roses, her pet cat, or the bear who sat on her deck.

A proud parent, Parni loved just being with her kids. She found special joy in being “Namma P” to her three grandchildren.

Parni’s many, many friends, colleagues, and neighbors remember her warm good humor, unfailing willingness to help others, and a deep compassion born of her own suffering in life. She met challenges with strength, grace, and positivity. She was curious; she was creative. She was an original.

Parnilla is survived by her partner Mark Reep of Lawrenceville, PA; son Troy Carpenter of Goldendale, WA; daughter Mariah Cain (Josh) of Elmira, NY; grandchildren Roselyn, Claire, and Harrison Cain, cousin Nellie Setters Parson of Kentucky, and countless loving friends.

Family and friends are invited to Chamberlain Acres Garden Center, Elmira, NY—one of Parni’s favorite places—on Wednesday, July 8th for a time of visitation starting at 9 a.m., services at 10 a.m., and reception to follow.