Susan Marie (Thomas) Parrish

Age 63, a lifelong resident of Wilmington, Illinois, passed away at Ascension Saint Joseph Medical Center on Monday, August 29, 2022.

Born March 8, 1959 in Mattoon, Illinois, a daughter to John Dewey and Elsie Eleanore (Worland) Thomas. Susan graduated from Wilmington High School with the Class of 1977, and during high school, worked at The MAR Theatre and also the Launching Pad. After graduating, Susan worked for Folger Adams for over 24 years, as well as Dockside Marine for 20 years, and was the secretary and bookkeeper for Parrish Blacktop. On March 15, 1986 Susan married Donald Parrish at the First United Methodist Church in Wilmington, and together they cherished 36 years of marriage. She was a former member of the Wilmington Moose Lodge #241 and a parishioner of St. Rose Catholic Church.

Susan was an avid gardener who loved flowers. She loved cooking and was especially known for her baking. Susan adored her husband and they spent many years traveling and on the go. She loved dancing especially when Don’s band was playing. Susan enjoyed entertaining guests, but most importantly was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt who cherished time with her family.

Survivors include her husband Don of Wilmington; two step-children: Jill (Brian) Gill of Wilmington and Ron (Tammie) Parrish of Braidwood; eight grandchildren; (15) great-grandchildren; three brothers: Steve (Donna) Thomas of Nekoosa, WI, Terry Thomas and Robert Thomas of Wilmington; one sister Mary (Fred) Gaddis of Coal City; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Denise Thomas, James Balentine, Sandy (the late John) Parrish, Richard (Jinnie) Parrish, Bonnie (Bill) Favero, Barb (Pat) Duffy, Bev (Mike) Duffy, Michael (Jan) Parrish, Peggy (Jimmy) Cole, Linda (Doug) Mandat, Lillie (Steve) Heitke, and Donna (the late Tommy) Thompson; as well as, several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers: Patrick (Jeanne) Thomas, Mike Thomas and Dave Thomas; one sister Jane Balentine; one grandson Thomas Vaughn; one great-grandson Liam Vaughn, and her sister-in-law, Lois (Ray) Martin.

The family will receive friends at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 E. Kahler Road in Wilmington on Friday, September 2, 2022 from 3:00 p.m. until time of funeral service at 7:00 p.m. Deacon Jay Plese and Pastor Thomas Olmstead will officiate. Green flameless cremation rites will be accorded following services.

Preferred memorials in Susan’s memory may be made to American Breast Cancer Foundation.

Friends and family are encouraged to upload photos, sign the online guestbook and share Susan’s memorial page by logging onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com.

Funeral and green flameless cremation arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)