Joyce Carol Parker

Joyce Carol Mermel Parker, age 90, of Eva, Tennessee, passed away peacefully with family by her side. She was born in Chicago, Illinois to the late Joseph Mermel and Sonia (Ziolkowski), both born in Illinois and both first generation immigrants from Poland. Joyce spent her childhood with her brother and family, her first memory of a swing in a grand tree in the yard, going her grandfather's furniture store and spending lots of time with her Polish grandparents.
Joyce graduated from catholic school and went on to college. Though getting a job at Motorola didn't seem life changing, it was there she met Willis Parker and the two were married on September 8th, 1957. They moved to Fort Lauderdale Florida in 1970 where they raised their four sons. She often was seen riding a bicycle to the local school to volunteer and was considered a mother to all who knew her.
In 1992 her and Willis moved to the quiet beauty of Eva, where she made her home and filled it with love, creativity, and kindness. Where in her kitchen is a sign that says be nice or leave! Her love for her family was like no other and she was the first to offer her opinion and support to her grandchildren, especially Jacob and Meghan, who she raised after the passing of her son Michael. She loved planting flowers for spring, sending letters to all her friends and family. A long-time member of St. Mary's Church in Camden, Joyce found purpose in her faith and her community. Over the years, she volunteered at the local library and the high school where two of her grandchildren attended. Known for her creativity and compassion, Joyce loved crafts, books, and passing down family stories and recipes.
Joyce was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Willis Parker. Her son Michael P. Parker, her parents, her Brother Joseph Mermel, Aunt Loraine and Aunt Marcella Ziolkowski.
She is survived by her sons, Wayne Parker, John Parker, Don Parker. Grandchildren Ashley Parker, Joshua Parker, Christopher Parker, Matthew Parker, Austin Parker, Todd Brelsford, Meryssa Parker, Michael Jacob Parker, Meghan Parker, and Faith Perkins. Great-Grandchildren, Riley, Chloe, Damien, Iain, Avah, Jaxon and two unborn babies on the way! Her nephew Randy Mermel (Jessie) and their children, Sage and Rowan.
There will be no formal funeral services. Joyce will be remembered in a private gathering with family, where her life, love, and laughter will be celebrated.