Charlotte “Gayle” Osborn Parker of Henrico, Virginia, went to be with the Lord on October 4, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer. She was surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Chesterfield, Virginia, Gayle spent her entire life in the Commonwealth and would have celebrated her 71st birthday on October 30.
Gayle was a resilient woman with a generous heart who always put her family first. She had a special place in her heart for Waffle House, where she met her beloved husband, Norman, and where a simple meal became part of their love story. Affectionately known as “Yogi,” after Yogi Bear, Gayle had a natural instinct for caring for others and a lifelong dedication to service. A devout follower of Jesus, she shared her faith through her Lay Servant ministry and as an active member and Bible class teacher at Forest Grove United Methodist Church in Ashland, Virginia.
Whether volunteering as a hospital candy striper, serving with the Bensley-Bermuda Rescue Squad, or simply lending a helping hand to someone in need, she found joy and purpose in being there for others. Her determination was also evident in her professional and educational accomplishments. Over her years of work, she has worked at Waffle House, Mayberry’s Ice Creme Shoppes & Sandwiches, Omelette Shoppe, and Afton Chemical. She found friendship and fulfillment during her years working at Admiral Security at Vistas on the James and earned her associate’s degree in criminal justice in 2007. Most recently, Gayle found a wonderful community at Maple Woods Apartments, where she formed cherished friendships and a true sense of belonging. Through life's challenges, Gayle remained devoted to her faith, her family, and the people she loved. Gayle also had a wonderful sense of humor and a gift for bringing laughter to those around her, even during life’s most difficult moments.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Norman Parker; her parents, Frank O. and Lorrine L. Osborn; her sisters, Jackie Osborn, Jean Harrell, and Doris Llewellyn; and cherished members of her extended family, Jessica Watson and Sarah Saponara.
She is survived by her three sons, Robert “Eddie” Eacho, Norman J. Parker, and Frank Parker and his wife, Tricia Reagan; her stepson, Chuck Dorsey; her brother, Frank E. Osborn and his wife, Lou Ann Osborn; her grandchildren, Austin Parker, Vanessa Parker and her partner, Dustin Harford, and Sage Parker; and her great-grandson, Liam Harford; her long time family friends, Brian Barté, Trey Chiounard, and Steve Russo. She is also survived by her step-grandchildren, Liliana Reagan and Miles Lucier, as well as numerous extended family members and friends.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 14, from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. at Nelsen Funeral Home in Ashland, Virginia. A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 16, at Forest Grove United Methodist Church, followed by a graveside service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to Forest Grove United Methodist Church.
