Joanne Marie Parker

She was born Aug. 23, 1927 in Portland, ME, daughter of the late Elmer and Hazel Purington. She had retired in 1989 from Gould Inc. and later worked at the Aqua Turf for 10 years. She was an avid Red Sox and UCONN women?s basketball fan. Mrs. Parker was a member of the First Baptist Church and was loved by all that knew her. Joanne married the love of her life, Gene on March 19, 1949 in North Carolina. After retirement she enjoyed visiting every marjor National Park in the U.S with her beloved ?Gene? She loved knitting, gardening and taking care of her two cats.

Besides her husband, she is survived by her children, Thomas G. Parker of Deep River, Diane M. Dickert and husband William of Lake Tahoe, CA, Pamela J. Stepler and husband Carl of Torrington, 9 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by 2 brothers Laurel and Phillip Purington and a sister Shirley Butler.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 10, 2011 at the First Baptist Church, 581 Meriden Ave., at 2 p.m. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to the First Baptist Church, 581 Meriden Ave. Southington, CT 06489. DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main St. is in charge of arrangements.