Sylvia R. Parker

Sylvia Ruth Parker (nee Stewart) Born in the Coal River area of South Western, West Virginia to the late Okey and Angie (nee Hamilton) Stewart. Passed away on Saturday, January 14, 2023 at AMITA Health Saint Joseph Medical Center, Joliet. She was raised in Keith, WV and Sylvester, WV. She was the forth of five children. Preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, Richard Parker (October 2020) and her siblings, Thelma Hudson, Junior, Mona Bishop and the youngest Kenneth. She graduated from Sherman High School, Seth, WV Class of 1961. Sylvia met Richard when he was stationed at Turner Air Force Base, Albany, Georgia. They married in 1965 in Joliet, IL and were married for 55 beautiful years. They chose to settle in the east side of Joliet where Richard was employed by Mobil and later Amoco Chemical. They were the proud parents of Brian K. born in 1966 and David Michael born in 1969. Sylvia began working at H&R Block in 1975, once the boys were in full-day school. The six month on/ six month off schedule suited family life perfectly. This would become a lifelong career. She attended Joliet Junior College and multiple annual tax workshops as well as H&R Block training classes. She would later become an instructor of new trainees. In 1980, Richard and Sylvia moved their family to Minooka, IL and Sylvia started her own tax preparation office "Sylvia Parker Tax Service" on Jefferson Avenue in Joliet as well as two other close by locations. Many of her clients and co-workers followed Sylvia when she branched out on her own, chiefly among her coworkers was Joanne Coleman who assisted in preparation and reception at the office. Joanne passed in 2000. In the early 1980's she obtained her Enrolled Agent Status with the IRS and represented clients who were being audited. Her dedication and no-nonsense approach built the trust which would keep the 1000's of clients as well as their children returning year after year. Among her clients were, Mary Kay Sales Representatives and self employed working women and business owners who became not just clients but friends. She was active in the National Association of Tax Professionals and was widely known and respected among her peers. Sylvia enjoyed spending weekends at Troy Sportsman's Club and camping at Rolling Oaks Campground near Sandwich, IL. Vacationing with family in the RV was the highlight of her summers, traveling from Wyoming to Florida and frequently to Wisconsin and the U.P. She enjoyed reading, gardening, photography, embroidery and collected Beanie Babies, Coins, Oil Lamps and Figurines. An animal lover at heart she was a proud canine and feline owner. Left to mourn and cherish her memory are her two sons, Brian Parker (Michelle Stone-Parker) and David (Jerry Goodman) Parker as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. A Memorial Gathering for Sylvia R. Parker will be held on Saturday, January 21, 2023 from 1:00 PM until Service Begins at 3:15 PM at The Maple Funeral Home located at 24300 S. Ford Rd, Channahon, IL. David Hughes officiating. Cremation Rites have been accorded. In lieu of flowers the family would greatly appreciate your considering donations to your local animal shelter. For in formation 815. 467-1234

Sylvia R. Parker

September 19, 1942 - January 14, 2023