Louise Parker

Louise Parker, 86, of Benton, passed away peacefully on May 10, 2021 surrounded by her beloved family. 

She was born on May 20, 1934 in Peachtree, NC to the late Nelson and Blanche Leatherwood.

Louise graduated from Polk County High School in 1952 and she was also the first Miss POCOHI in 1950.  Louise retired from Magic Chef/Maytag after 28 years of service.  She loved being around her family and enjoyed working in her yard and being outdoors.  Louise was a lifelong member of Oak Grove Baptist Church where she served as Church Clerk for many years.  She loved going to church and being in service for the Lord.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years, Willie R. Parker, SR.

Survivors include her loving children, Willie (Sandra) Parker, JR. and Karen Kim; two grandchildren, Aaron (Yvette) Parker and Sharon Johnson; three great-grandchildren, Lindsey (Isaac) Bodley, Austin Parker and Brodie Johnson; five great great-grandchildren, Scarlette, Nehemiah, Delilah Bodley, Emajyn Parker and Kelilah Parker; brothers, Roy (Eleanor) Leatherwood and Bennie Leatherwood; sisters-in-law, Billie Parker, Mary (Buddy) Waters, Johnnie Sue Ledwell and Shilah Parker.  Several nieces, nephews and a host of friends also survive.

A private Celebration of Life graveside service will be conducted at a later date with Reverend Don Whitehead officiating.  Willie Parker, Aaron Parker, Brodie Johnson, Bennie Leatherwood, Roy Leatherwood, Isaac Bodley and Stacy Bell will serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association or American Cancer Society.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFuneral.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.