Eleanor B. Parke

Eleanor "Andy" Bowdoin (Anderson) Parke, beloved teacher and mother, died on June 5, 2025 at age 96. Born in Springfield, she was the daughter of the late Herbert and Lina (Greenwood) Anderson. She was a resident of Loomis Lakeside at Reeds Landing. Eleanor received her BA and MA from American International College and completed her graduate studies at Springfield College. For 25 years, she taught 5th grade at three local schools, and for many years served as a member and president of the Springfield Women's Club. Eleanor became a strong supporter of the National Cathedral in Washington, DC and was selected as Woman of the Year for the Episcopal Diocese of Western Massachusetts in 1970. She was a lifelong member of Christ Church Cathedral, served there in many capacities, and in 2018 was made an Honorary Canon of the Cathedral. Eleanor was preceded in death by her beloved husband, The Rev. John Holbrook Parke. She is survived by her children, Richard Cole Parke of Mechanicsburg, PA, David Cole Parke of Leicester, MA, Robert Cushman Parke of Barnstable Village, MA, and Emily Parke Chase of Mechanicsburg, PA. In addition, she is remembered fondly by her eight grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. An only child and single much of her life, she always said, "Family was the best gift I was ever given by my husband." She is remembered for her sense of humor, a listening ear, service to others, daily prayers for her family, and she looked forward to eternal life with Christ in Heaven. All are welcome to Eleanor's 1:00 p.m. Memorial Service on Saturday, July 5th at Christ Church Cathedral. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ Church Cathedral, 35 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA 01103. For condolences, please visit TazziniFuneralHome.com. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Eleanor, please visit our Tree Store.