Parker, Nila Frances (Mannebach) 83, of Wichita KS passed away peacefully on April 11th, 2024, surrounded by her family after a battle with cancer.
Nila was born November 24, 1940, the fourth of seven children to Albert and Martha Mannebach. In 1958, she graduated from Maize High School with two of her sisters, Marilyn and Lettie. At the same time, her younger sister, Laura, graduated from eighth grade. The newspapers ran the event of the four sisters graduating together.
The following year, she married James (Jim) Parker, and they had six children. They were married for 59 years and successfully ran J. M. Parker Construction Company. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who especially enjoyed having family around.
Nila loved nature and the outdoors. Spring was her favorite season. An ardent gardener, she and Jim’s gardens were known for their beauty. So much so that people took their prom pictures in their backyard.
Nila was an avid lifelong artist who inspired generations of artists, including her children and grandchildren. She was especially fond of sketching children and babies wherever she went and then surprising parents with the pictures.
She will be lovingly remembered by her family: Deanna (Tom) Knapp, Randy (Rose) Parker, John Parker, Lori (Chuck) Wagner, Steven (Lori Yarbrough) Parker, 17 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. She also will be remembered by her brothers: Glenn Mannebach and Dale (Kate) Mannebach.
Nila was preceded in death by her husband James Maurice Parker, son Ronald Dale Parker, grandchildren Emily Sue Knapp, and Nicole Renee Longstaff, and great-grandchild Allissa Shaylin Parker. Along with her parents, Albert and Martha Mannebach, and siblings: Bonnie Kuhn, Marilyn (Shorty) Waggoner, Lettie (Vic) Goerke, and Laura (Al) Mohr.
A visitation for Nila and her family will be on Monday, April 15, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hillside Funeral Home West, 2929 W 13th St. North, Wichita, KS. Her funeral service will be held Tuesday, April 16, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Central Community Church, 6100 W. Maple St., Wichita, KS. A graveside service will follow at Greenwood Cemetery 6231 W 47th St. South, Wichita KS.
Nila was deeply concerned about children on the street and child victims of human trafficking. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be sent to ICT SOS at 535 S Emporia, Suite 101 Wichita KS 67202.
