Alta Lippard Pernell, 99, passed away peacefully at Trinity Ridge Assisted Living, Hickory, NC on May 19, 2025.

Alta was born on November 4, 1925 to the late Wade Hampton Lippard and Myrtle Kates Lippard. Alta was a devoted Mother and Grandmother and delighted in big family gatherings at her home. She loved being our "Mimi". She was also a faithful member of the Shelby First Baptist Church since 1950.

She served in many capacities, including Director of FBC Extension Program for 32 years. She especially loved Judy Hawkins, who worked with her and took over as Director of the Extension program when Alta retired. Special appreciation also to Perry and Lib Holleman who became Alta's extension visitors, when she could no longer attend FBC. Alta was awarded the Lions Club Citizenship Award in 1991 for the most outstanding service to the city of Shelby for that year.

Alta was married for 65 years to William "Bill" Aubrey Pernell, who died March 5, 2008. In addition to her parents, her brothers, Lawrence, Pressley, Jim, Grady, and her sisters Lucy, Blanche, and Evelyn also preceded her in death.

Alta is survived by her sister, Ruby L. Long of Raleigh, and Alta's 4 children and their families. Her children are Bill and Polly Pernell of Hendersonville, Pamela Pernell of Hickory, Van and Jill Pernell of Hickory, and Cliff and Cathy Pernell of Conover. Alta is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Special appreciation is also given for many loving nieces and nephews, extended family, neighbors on Leander Street, and friends. She loved them all.

Please join us to celebrate Alta's life on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at the First Baptist Church Chapel in Shelby. The family will be in the chapel to receive friends at 12:30 prior to the service, which will begin at 1:00 PM. Burial will be held following the service at Cleveland Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, 120 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 28150.

Online condolences may be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.