- Date Of Birth: October 8, 1916
- Date Of Death: December 5, 2012
- State: Michigan
Iona Ella Parker was born into time on October 8, 1916 to Walter and Ella Wilson in Mound Bayou, Mississippi. She was the second born of three children and was preceded in death by her two siblings.
Iona, who had a beautiful spirit, accepted God at a very early age and for many years worshipped at the First Baptist Church of Vandalia. She completed her education in Mound Bayou, Mississippi.
On January 28, 1933, Iona married Willie Parker, the love of her life. This union blessed them with 11 children. They migrated from Mississippi to Chicago, Illinois and on to Vandalia, Michigan. They then resettled in Chicago in 1945. Iona secured employment at Mercy Hospital and worked there until retirement. After retirement, she and Willie decided to return to Vandalia to enjoy a quiet, serene life in a rural setting.
Iona truly enjoyed gardening and sewing and delighted in the visits from her children, grandchildren, the annual family picnics which included friends and extended family, and holiday gatherings. Iona transitioned to her heavenly dwelling place of everlasting peace on Thursday, December 5, 2012. She was preceded in death by her oldest son, Eugene and her loving husband Willie, and she will be laid to rest by his side in Vandalia, Michigan. Iona’s legacy will continue on through her children: Willa (Robert, deceased) Cole, Eugene (deceased) Earlicious Parker, Walter (Theresa) Parker, Vernice (Ivory) Brantley, Leola (Maurice) Corbin, Mose (Clara) Parker, Iona (James) Taylor, Natalie (Taft) Abdulla, Constance (Curtis) Jones, Leatrice (Michael) Rucker and Ceasar Parker; 35 grandchildren; 46 great grandchildren; a host of great, great grandchildren; and many nieces, cousins and loving friends.
