Helen Tennessee Parker

On October 10, 2021 Helen “Bea” Parker was called home to celebrate her heavenly birthday. We lost our beloved mother and the world lost a caring and dedicated family member, friend and the ultimate caregiver.

Helen was born to James Walker and MinnieLee Williams on October 10, 1940. She was the child of and lovingly reared by Thomas and Tennessee Reed. All parents preceded her in death. Helen was a proud graduate of Lincoln High c/o 1958. Nursing was not a career, it was her calling. Helen graduated from Menorah Hospital School of Nursing and later completed advanced studies in nursing at Penn Valley Community College. Throughout her career she gained many advanced certifications and specialty credentials. Her passion for healthcare persisted throughout her lifetime.

June 20, 1959 she married Nathaniel Parker. Together they had 5 beautiful children: Dana (Jennifer Parker), Territerrain (Mark Williams preceded her in death), Sherri, Tonnette (DeWain Barnes), and Tamara. “Mama/Bea” possessed the ability to love and adore the uniqueness of each child. Each one of them embodies a part of their mother’s beautiful soul: Dana was her only son (“Ambition”); Territerrain was her fighter (“Nurturing Spirit”); Sherri was her rock (“Strength”); Tonnette was her free spirit (“Sense of Humor”); Tamara was her BABY, her protector (“Loyalty & Fearlessness”)

“Grandma Bea, O.G.” had an unmatched love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Grandchildren: Oni, Terrence (Shani Higgins), Meneshia, Ja'Darius, Eric (preceded her in death), and Stephanie. Her great-grandchildren were the spark in her heart: Michale, Niani, Doriyea, Ja’Lia, Sydney, Arik, and Thomas. Helen’s love for her family was unconditional and limitless. Loved by all, Mama Helen /Grandma Bea came to be a mother figure to close family friends, neighborhood children and all who had the pleasure of interacting with her.

Helen loved spending time with family and friends. Reminiscing about the good ole days, and telling a story in her special way provided Helen with great joy. This was always a treat for her children and grandchildren. Dancing, watching (reenacting) Kung-fu movies, and listening to all types of music (gospel -hiphop) kept her young at heart.

Giving came so natural to Helen. She gave her time, energy, and effort to church, several healthcare ministries, and community groups. Helen “Bea” was never more than a phone call away always willing to provide friends and family with support.

Loved ones are invited to pay their respects at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home, 10507 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131, Monday, October 18, 2021 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Funeral Services will be private.