Shirley Jean Parker

Shirley Jean Parker, age 79 of Carterville, IL, died Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023 at the Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon, IL.  She was born June 3, 1943 in Pope County, Illinois, the daughter of Mathew and Lorain Collier.  Shirley graduated from Pope County High School in 1957 at the age of 14.  She worked over 30 years as a telephone operator for Dekalb Ogle Phone Company.  Shirley loved the outdoors, fishing and riding bikes with the love of her life, Dallas E. Parker.  They married on March 26, 1990 in Dekalb.  He beloved husband Dallas preceded her in death in 2021.  She was also preceded by her parents, brother Kendal Collier, sister Alma Cruson.  She is survived by her sisters Faye Bellwood and Kathy Roads as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.  Shirley’s loving and lighthearted spirit will truly be missed.

A Graveside Service will be held at a later date at the Fairview Cemetery in Dekalb, IL.  Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home in Oregon, IL is assisting the family.