Ruth Parker

MARION Ruth M. Parker, 82, of Marion passed away on Tuesday, October 18, 2011 in Heartland Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be conducted for Ruth on Friday, October 21, 2011 at 11:00 AM at Creal Springs United Methodist Church with Reverend Tim Woodard officiating. A time of gathering for friends and family is to be held on Thursday, October 20, 2011 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Blue Funeral Home in Marion. Memorial donations are suggested to either the Lighthouse Shelter in Marion or the Creal Springs United Methodist Church; envelopes are available during the services or may be sent C/O Blue Funeral Home, PO Box 411, Marion, IL, 62959. Ruth was born on Monday, November 26, 1928 in Creal Springs to Harry & Ida (Hinchcliff) Turnage. She married Marion Parker on Thursday, August 14, 1947 in Marion; he preceded her in death on Saturday, November 2, 1996. Survivors include her daughter, Michelle Parker-Clark & husband Mike Clark; grand-daughter, Amanda Robinson & husband Joe; great-grandchildren, Tyler Robinson & Tayvin Robinson; sisters, Helen Chamness, Wilma Deaton, Pauline & Carroll Parks and Sue & Curt Williams; and brother, Gene & Mollie Turnage. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents; husband and sister, Bessie Simmons. As a young lady, during World War II, Ruth joined the unprecedented number of women entering the ranks of factory workers, helping American industry meet the wartime production demands for airplane parts. After the War, Ruth spent her time as a homemaker and attending her church, Creal Springs United Methodist Church. She enjoyed attending plays and musicals with her daughter, and held on her to love of Big Band Music, namely Glenn Miller. Ruth looked forward to her daily naps with “Princess the Cat”. She will be forever remembered in the hearts of those she touched in life.