Thelma Parker

Thelma Bernice Parker, made her transition from her earthly life Saturday, December 11, 2010 at her home in Pleasanton, Kansas. She was born the daughter of Carl A. Teubner and Iva Miller Teubner on October 8, 1908 in Pleasanton, Kansas. She graduated from Pleasanton Rural High School in 1927 and attended Bethany College for one year, majoring in vocal music. Thelma married Donald E. Parker on July 17, 1929 in Butler, Missouri. They were blessed with the birth of four sons; Don Leon, George Hamilton, Carl Herbert "C.H." and James Terry Parker Sr. Their union lasted almost sixty years until Don passed away in 1990. Thelma's career as a dancing teacher lasted for over fifty years, touching and inspiring the lives of thousands of children. She had dance studios in Pleasanton, Mound City, LaCygne, Fort Scott, Osawatomie and Paola in Kansas and Butler and Nevada in Missouri. Mrs. Parker was a member of the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church, where she was organist for many years, PEO Chapter CD, Eastern Star, the Gleaner's Club and Kansas City and Chicago Dance Association Conventions. In 2001, Thelma moved to Tahlequah, Oklahoma to live with her son and caregiver, C.H. She enjoyed the music and dance shows, basketball and football games at Northeastern State University where C.H. taught and directed music shows. However, she loved returning to Pleasanton to be in her home on Park Street for so many special occasions like holidays and Pleasanton High School reunions where this year she was honored as the oldest living graduate in attendance. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald E. Parker, two sons, Don Leon Parker and James Terry Parker Sr. and one brother, Russell Teubner. Survivors include her two sons, C.H. Parker of Tahlequah, Oklahoma and George and wife, Judy of Topeka, Kansas, six grandsons, one of which, James Terry Parker Jr. and wife, Laura and their daughters, reside in Pleasanton, Kansas; five grand daughters, five great grandsons and ten great granddaughters, first cousins, Juanita Ogle, Bob Miller and George Teubner, niece, Edith Ann White and her dear friend, Darlene Frank. In her 102 years of longevity, she experienced many changes, and historical events. From the age of nine when she sang for the World War I troops in Kincaid and Crocker Opera House to celebrating her 100th birthday with family and friends at Pleasanton in 2008. All in all, she proved to be a remarkable person and will be missed by all who loved her. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, December 15, 2010 at the Presbyterian Church, Pleasanton, Kansas. Visitation will be from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Coffel-Schneider Chapel, Pleasanton. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pleasanton Presbyterian Church or the PEO Chapter CD Scholarship Fund.. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.coffelschneider.com Arrangements: Coffel-Schneider Funeral Home, Pleasanton, Kansas.