Susan Denise "Grammy" Parker

Susan Denise Parker, 71, of New Athens, Illinois, born March 22, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully at her home on March 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Sue devoted much of her life to caring for others as a licensed practical nurse. She worked for many years at Oak Hill Nursing Home in Waterloo, Illinois, where her kindness, compassion, and gentle spirit touched the lives of countless residents and their families. Nursing was more than a profession for Sue; it was a calling that reflected her deeply caring heart.

Above all else, Sue cherished her family. She was a devoted mother and proud grandmother who found her greatest joy in time spent with the people she loved most. Known affectionately as “Grammy,” she treasured every moment with her grandchildren, whether sharing stories, laughter, or simply being together. Sue had a remarkable way of making everyone around her feel welcomed, cared for, and loved. Her generous heart and warm presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford and Stella (Newsome) Redburn, and her grandson, Christian Cockrum. Sue is survived by her husband, Maurice Parker; her six children, Robyn (Marvin) Gaubatz of Waterloo, Illinois, Eric (Tracy) Cockrum of St. Louis, Missouri, Sarah (Bobby) Kries of Carterville, Illinois, Hannah (Christopher) Fullerton of Coulterville, Illinois, Scott Parker of New Athens, Illinois, and Jordan (Chris) Albers of St. Libory, Illinois; six cherished grandchildren, Melanie (Nathan) Wadding, Matthew (Brooklyn) Gaubatz, Masyn Kries, James and Parker Fullerton, and Ava Albers; and her beloved great-granddaughter, Charlotte Cockrum. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, many nieces and nephews, and friends who will fondly remember her love and kindness.