Obituary of Phyllis J. Parker

Phyllis J. Parker Phyllis J. Parker, (sister of Joy P. Whitcomb) long-time resident of Lockport, NY, died peacefully on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at Briody Health Care Facility, surrounded by her cherished nursing care family. “Philly” as she came to be known by her caregivers, was recently recognized as the facility’s longest tenant, having resided at this location since August of 2000. Well-known for her quick-wit and ready smile, Philly also provided back rubs to the nursing staff during the early years of her stay. Born on September 17, 1924 in Lockport, she was the daughter of Paul A. and Mary Zeman Parker. She graduated from Lockport Senior High School and Bryant & Stratton Business School before enlisting in the WAVES of the U.S. Navy. There she served from 1944 to 1946 attaining Yeoman 1C, receiving The Victory Ribbon and The American Campaign Ribbon for her service during WWII. Rarely idle, Phyllis went on to work as a secretary at The Carborundum Company, Niagara Falls, NY for 27 years. It was at The Carborundum where she met her life-long travel partner, Jean Robertson (d. 2005.) After retiring in 1983, she moved to Lewiston before returning to Lockport in 1999. “Parky” as she was known to her immediate family spent many years vacationing in Cape Cod and traveling throughout the New England states with her dear friend Jean; walking the beaches, carving and writing stories and letters. She was an avid reader, member of the First Presbyterian Church, and tirelessly drove the road between Lockport and Rochester, taking care of her mother, Mary Parker Hogan, for many years. Surviving are her sister, Joy (William) Whitcomb of Ohio, step brother, George Hogan of Bergen, NY, nephew, Steven (Mary) Whitcomb of FL; niece, Robin Whitcomb Amos of Ohio as well as four grand nieces and nephews, Chris and Tom Whitcomb (FL) and Kara and Alex Amos (Ohio), who remember her best for the songs she sang to them as wee children. Parky (Philly) loved to sing! Private graveside services will be held at the convenience of the family in Glenwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 21 Church St., Lockport, NY. Condolences may be sent to the family c/o Joy Whitcomb, 200 Laurel Lake Drive G-113, Hudson, Ohio, 44236. The family wishes to thank Lange Funeral Home for their assistance.