Photo courtesy of West Wood Street - Decatur
Decatur, Illinois
Jul 12, 1925 – Sep 1, 2017
Ellen Jean Parr, 92, of Decatur, IL passed away peacefully on Friday, September 1,
2017 with her close family around her.
A service to celebrate and honor Ellen’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday,
September 4, 2017 at Dawson & Wikoff West Wood Street Funeral Home.
Visitation will begin 10:00 a.m. She will be laid to rest next to her husband, Duane
M. Parr, at Star of Hope Mausoleum at Graceland Cemetery in Decatur. In lieu of
flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to one of Ellen’s favorite
charities, the March of Dimes.
Ellen was born on July 12, 1925 in Rockford, IL, the daughter of Arthur Reed and
Mae (Bain) Hoak. She married Duane M. Parr on August 3, 1947. Ellen earned
her nursing degree in 1947 and served as a surgical nurse at Decatur-Macon
County Hospital (now DMH). Ellen was a devoted wife, mother, and
grandmother. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren sewing costumes
and clothes for them and inspiring them to bake. Each year, she would bake and
donate dozens of cookies to Decatur’s annual Christmas Walk.
Surviving are her children: David Parr and his wife Marcia of Mt. Zion, IL; Janne
Allen of Decatur, IL; Philip Parr and his wife Kim of Denver, CO; ten
grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and her brother: James Hoak.
What a privilege to meet and serve your family. Thank you for allowing us to step into your lives and share precious moments with you and your mother at such a critical time. We continue to pray for your peace and comfort. God bless your family.
Chaplain Jan, DMH Hospice
Jan Dial
September 06, 2017 | Maroa
Ellen was such a faithful friend to the Foley family. For more than 50 years, her friendship brought joy to our mother, Rosemary, and she took such delight in visiting with each of us. Our lives are richer because of Ellen's love and friendship.
Ed Foley
September 03, 2017 | Westerville, OH
Our Hearts and Prayers are going out to you and your entire family!
John & Cheryl Lercher
September 03, 2017 | Decatur, IL
We are sorry for your loss. We understand how you feel as we all go through our parent's aging, illness, and passing. Your mother was a very sweet lady, and we always enjoyed seeing her wearing her straw hat when she felt well enough to be out of her room.
Carl & Deb Wilkey
September 03, 2017 | Decatur, IL