Linda Dickson Parker

Linda lived life with a vibrant spirit and a deep love for the beauty of the world around her. She found joy in nature—especially the ocean and the beach—and loved surrounding herself with flowers and the peaceful work of gardening.

Linda was born in Jackson, Tennessee, to Era Inell Elder and Harold C. Dickson. At the age of three she met the man she would lovingly call her “Daddy,” Olden West, whom she adored deeply and who became a cherished part of her life.

Her greatest love was her family. She was a devoted mother to Trey Jeffries and Lesley Ward and loved her son-in-law, Dr. Forrest Ward, as her own. Caring for others came naturally to Linda. Known for her energy and generous heart, she was always the one who stepped in to help family, friends, and anyone in need.

Linda began her career as an oncology nurse at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where her compassion and strength brought comfort to countless children and their families. She continued as an oncology nurse for the remainder of her career and touched many lives through her care and dedication.

She shared a deep and enduring love with her husband, Dr. David Parker, who passed away three years ago and whom she missed dearly every day.

Linda was also preceded in death by her beloved infant daughter, Lenita Beth Jeffries, her brother John Anthony West, and her loving sister-in-law Janet West.

Linda is survived by her children, Trey Jeffries (Christi) and Lesley Ward, and her son-in-law, Dr. Forrest Ward.

She is also survived by her grandchildren, Morgan Jeffries Jones (Aaron), Brandon Jeffries, and Blake Jeffries; and her great-grandchildren, Xander Jones, Kizer Jones, Kobe Jeffries, Brayden Jeffries, and Tyson Jeffries.

She is also survived by her bonus daughter, Jennifer Zimmerman; her bonus grandsons, Dr. Justin Parker and Matthew Zimmerman; and her bonus great-grandson, David Zimmerman.

She is also survived by her brothers, Larry West and Royce West (Lisa), and her aunt, Barbara Elder Downen (Tom).

Linda will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her servant’s heart, and the love she shared so freely with others. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and the many lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.