Virginia Eleanore Parks

Virginia Endicott Sousley Parks passed away in Yreka, California on September 25, 2025, after a short illness. She was 89 years old. Born on July 12, 1936, in Portland, Oregon, Virginia was the daughter of Mary Remington Endicott and James Donald Endicott. She was a proud direct descendant of John Endicott, the historic Governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Her mother later married Leland Sousley, and they welcomed Virginia's sister, Lee Sousley. Together they grew up along the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, living in both Washington and Oregon. Virginia graduated from the Dalles High School in 1955 and went on to graduate from the Oregon Institute of Technology in Klamath Falls. While there, she met and married Earl Whitlow in 1957. They had two daughters, Thea and Nicole. Virginia made Yreka her home for 65 years. She worked for many of those years as the Office Manager at Newton Medical Clinic until retirement. Beyond her career she generously volunteered her time with several different organizations over the years including the Red Scarf Society and Soroptimist International. In 1991, she married OB Parks, who passed away in 1999. Virginia embraced life with a wide range of passions. She loved to read, play games, attend the theatre, and collect antiques. Her taste in music was eclectic, spanning from Willie Nelson to Luciano Pavarotti. Travel was a joy in her life, especially trips to the Oregon Coast, which were never complete without a bowl of clam chowder and a visit to the candy shop in Bandon. She shared many of her favorite adventures with her longtime partner, Bob Evanhoe, with travels ranging from Hawaii, New Orleans, and Boston to international destinations like England, Russia, and France. Her daughters fondly remember their "girls shopping trips," which were always followed by a fancy lunch and spirited retellings of their fantastic bargains. Virginia's family cherishes the countless memories of good times and laughter they shared, a testament to the joy and love she brought into their lives. She will be greatly missed, and each person who knew her holds a special story about her in their heart. Virginia is survived by her partner, Bob Evanhoe, and her children: Thea Palmiere (Rick) and Nicole Whitlow. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Austin Palmiere (Lainey), Adriana Kinzer (Trace), and Scoute Crist (Dylan), as well as her nieces Denise Mitchusson (Rick) and Deena Sinks, and three great-grandchildren. Virginia requested no services. Remembrance donations may be sent to Madrone Hospice, 255 Collier Circle in Yreka.