Parena Nash Crump, lovingly remembered for her quiet strength, warm spirit, and faithful devotion to family and church, was born June 27, 1931, in Cumberland County, Virginia, to the late Margaret and Henry Nash.
Parena’s life was a beautiful testimony of perseverance, grace, and love; love that showed up, love that stayed, and love that will continue to live on in every heart she touched. Affectionately known to many as “Granny,” she carried a huge warmth that made people feel welcomed, safe, and loved.
Granny gracefully gained her wings on January 5, 2026, at Johnston-Willis Hospital in Richmond, Virginia, surrounded by the love of those who cherished her.
Parena received her early education in the Cumberland County Training Schools, and she carried those values of discipline, respect, and determination throughout her life. At an early age, she joined Center Union Baptist Church in Powhatan, Virginia, where her faith became her foundation. She served faithfully in the choir for more than 40 years, and later became the Choir Secretary, fulfilling her responsibilities with passion, excellence, and pride as she was President of the Missionary Ministry. Parena was the oldest living member and Mother of the church. Her service was heartfelt and consistent, and she loved her church family deeply.
Parena was united in marriage to James (Gene) Crump. While no children were born of this union, their home was filled with love. Gene embraced and raised Parena’s two children, Estelle and Russell, loving them as if they were his very own. Together, they built a family rooted in care, commitment, and devotion.
Much of Parena’s working life was spent in what was then considered “Domestic Work” in Richmond, Virginia with Mrs. Withers and various others. She worked hard, served faithfully, and carried herself with dignity and humility. Even when her health began to decline, the love she gave and the strength she carried never faded.
Anyone who truly knew Granny knew her love could be felt most deeply around the table. She loved cooking for her family and having loved ones gathered in her home for special holidays. Her specialties were well-known and always requested - sweet potato pie, coconut pie, and cake - and she never turned anyone away who asked for one, because everything she made was always made with love. Granny also had her favorite snacks, especially Ginger Snaps, Deacon Ernest Booker was known for faithfully keeping her supplied with them, along with her other favorites - peppermint candy and Pepsi. Those small, sweet memories will live on as reminders of how cherished she was and how deeply she was cared for.
Parena was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Estelle Trent.
Parena leaves to cherish fond memories one son, Russell (Cheryl) Nash; devoted grandchildren: Charles (Tina) Trent, Jr., Keith (Jgiann)Trent, Russell (Tracy) Nash and Shenelle (Eric) DiGaudio; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, all of whom she loved dearly, however, her "precious jewel" was Jermel Trent "JJ". She also leaves special people she lovingly referred to as her “bonus children”, especially Marie Fleming, whose steady, faithful care and loving presence until her final days meant more than words could ever express, along with Ladora "Dossie" Davis, Robert "Blugey" Goff, and Tiffany S. Trent, her "Cupcake". Parena leaves a host of nieces, devoted, Shirley Langhorne, nephews, close friends, Lucille Evans and Betty Berger Sears other relatives and friends - too many to name but each held a special place in her heart.
The family of Parena Nash Crump would also like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to Jennifer Baldwin. What began as a caregiving role became something far greater - Jennifer became a trusted companion, a live-in friend, and truly family. She stood by Granny with unwavering love, patience, and devotion, remaining faithfully at her side until the very end. Jennifer, thank you for the years of compassion, comfort, and care you poured into Granny’s life. Your kindness did not go unnoticed, and your love will never be forgotten. We pray that God will richly bless you for all you have done, and that the love you gave so freely returns to you tenfold. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.
Though our hearts are heavy, we are grateful for the gift of Parena’s life. Her love will remain—woven into our memories, spoken through our stories, and reflected in the lives she helped shape. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8
To send flowers or plant a tree in memory of Parena "Granny" Crump, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
9
Jan
15001 Patrick Henry Hwy
Amelia, VA 23002
Service
10
Jan
1053 Old Buckingham Road
Powhatan, VA 23139
Interment: Center Union Baptist Church
