Marilyn Ann Parker

Marilyn Ann Burns Parker passed away peacefully on April 24, 2025. Born on October 26, 1932, in Texarkana, Texas, to Effie Hanson Burns and William Quentin Burns. Marilyn spent her childhood in Texarkana and graduated from Texarkana, Arkansas High School in 1950. She then attended Baylor University, earning her B.S. degree in 1954. While at Baylor, she was an active member of the Alpha Omega, later Pi Beta Phi sorority, serving as president during the fall term. It was also at Baylor where she met her future husband, C. Dale Parker.

Marilyn and Dale were married on July 8, 1955. As Dale pursued his medical degree at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Marilyn began her career in education, teaching at Ball High School. Their journey continued to Fort Worth for Dale’s residency and then to Madison, Wisconsin, where he completed his internship in internal medicine and allergy at University Hospital.

In 1964, the Parkers settled in Austin, Texas, where Dale established his allergy practice and Marilyn found joy in raising their two daughters in the vibrant and growing city she came to love deeply. Marilyn was an active member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, where she taught Sunday School, served on the diaconate, and chaired the building and grounds committee. Later, she became a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church, where she particularly enjoyed participating in the Lamplighters Bible Study and the Deborah Circle.

Marilyn had many hobbies and passions. She was especially fond of her sewing and bridge clubs, and she loved art, antiques, and travel. She and Dale shared many wonderful adventures with their travel group. Marilyn also generously gave her time and talents to numerous organizations, including the Junior League of Austin, the Settlement Club, and the Junior League Garden Club.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.Q. Burns, her brother, Dr. William Q. Burns Jr., and her beloved husband of 56 years, Dr. C. Dale Parker.

She is survived by her daughters, Susan Parker Wise and husband Jeffrey C. Wise, and Mary Jane Parker, along with her cherished grandchildren, Marietta Merritt Wise and William Parker Wise.

We offer our greatest thanks to Elleni Seifu, who has become a part of our family over the last several years as she has diligently cared for our mother. We are additionally so grateful for all Mom’s amazing friends who have been there for her over the last difficult months and throughout her life.

Marilyn will be remembered for her grace, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and faith.

A memorial service celebrating Marilyn’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 7 at 1:00 p.m. at Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home, 5416 Parkcrest Drive, Austin, TX 78731

In Lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts sent to Covenant Presbyterian Church, the Helping Hand Home for Children or a charity of your choice.