Rockton, IL - On January 29th, 2026, the world lost an incredibly loving, thoughtful, and supportive soul in the form of Velma Mae Parr. Born on September 10th, 1932, in
Beloit, WI, Velma Mae lived a fulfilling life that spanned 93 years, as a lifelong resident of Rockton, Velma Mae was known for her funny sense of humor that could bring joy to an entire room. Her life was a remarkable testament to the power of love, family, and faith, which were the pillars that defined her existence.
Velma Mae was a homemaker, but she was so much more than that. She was the beating heart of her home, filling it with warmth and love. Velma worked for many years at the Candy Kitchen at the Wagon Wheel. She was an active member of the Rockton United Methodist Church, where she served as secretary. Her religious involvement was a testament to her faith and dedication. In her leisure time, Velma Mae enjoyed bowling, going for bike rides, and long walks. She cherished every moment spent with her family, making every gathering an occasion to remember.
The family wishes to extend a heartfelt Thank You to Fair Oaks Nursing Home for all their tender loving care given to Velma.
Velma Mae leaves behind a legacy of love and a large, loving family. She is survived by her daughter, Susan (Steven) Haas, her grandchildren Nikki (Mike) Hackett, Ella (Jim) Jones, Steven R. (Lynette) Haas; Andrea (Taylor) Abbott, Jessie (Laura) Tarrant; along with her great-grandchildren Haley (Jesse) Jones, Hanna (Keynan) Kiser, Haden (Maddy) Jones, Ty Haas, Shawn Haas, Kensley, Ember, Michaela (Rowan) Hackett, Easton Hackett, Audree (Nathan) Whited, Maddie (Bobby) Wolter; and great-great-grandchildren Emery, Dakota, Baby Kiser, Presley, Andrew. Her life was a beautiful journey marked by the love and joy she shared with her family. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wiley Parr; her parents, Carl Shilts and June Gonier; her children, Rick Parr and June Tarrant Scriven; her siblings, Lyle Shilts and Pat Lowery; along with her son-in-law Steve Tarrant.
As we remember Velma Mae, we invite you to share your favorite memories of her on the memorial page. Whether it's a funny anecdote, a cherished moment, or a simple tribute to her life, we encourage you to share and keep Velma Mae's memory alive. Please feel free to upload any photos you might have of her. Let's celebrate the life of this remarkable woman who meant so much to all of us.
A Funeral Ceremony will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 6, 2026 in McCorkle Funeral Home - Rockton Chapel, 767 N. Blackhawk Blvd.,
Rockton, IL. A visitation will be held at the funeral home from 9:30 a.m. until time of service, Friday. Burial will be in Rockton Township Cemetery.
Published by Beloit Daily News from Feb. 2 to Feb. 3, 2026.