Estelle Parker

After a lengthy illness, Estelle Parker peacefully joined The Master on Sunday morning, June 9, 2002. The eldest daughter of the late John and Elvia Swindler Sligh, she was born on January 29, 1918 in Newberry County, South Carolina. Estelle was educated at the Helena School of Newberry County. Estelle met and married Neice Parker in 1936. The couple was blessed with three children Mary Ellen, Delores, and Donzella. For many years she worked as a housekeeper and housewife. In 1951 the family relocated to Baltimore where she began her career as a skilled presser if fine fabrics. Estelle was employed at American Cleanes where she retired in 1980. She was baptized, as a child, at the Calvary Baptist Church in Newberry, South Carolina. Estelle accepted Christ as her Savior and strived to live in accordance to God’s law. Upon moving to Baltimore, she joined Gillis Memorial community Church where she immediately became and active participant in church activities and earned the love and respect of the entire church family. Estelle served as a member of the Matrons, Women'’ Council, Women’s Chorus, Busy Bees and an honorary member of the Every Ready Nurses. She loved the church and was a faithful and dedicated member of Gillis until her health would no longer permit. Estelle enjoyed life to the fullest. She loved beautiful clothes, shopping and could always be seen in her awesome hats. People always complimented her on how lovely and how uniquely she wore them. She also loved traveling, being in the company of others, and was and outstanding servant to her community as documented in 1983 with a Mayor’s citation for her public service. There was nothing she would not do for her family and friends. And exceptional baker and cook, she was known for her delicious cakes and pies especially her often requested pound cake. Her candied sweet potatoes were absolutely the best. Most especially she valued close family ties during holidays and family milestones. The spirit of togetherness was instilled deeply in her heart. She leaves to celebrate her life: her daughters, Mary Ellen Smackum, Delores Hannah and Donzella Parker-Bert; stepdaughter, Berthiner Parker Butler all of Baltimore, Maryland; stepson, Julian Parker of Fort Worth, Texas; sisters, Elizabeth Williams of Prosperity, South Carolina and Thelma Sligh; brother, James Jim Sligh both of New York, New York, Edward Sligh of Miami, Florida; sons-in-law, Leonard Smackum, David Hannah, and Colvin Bert; grandchildren Cheryl, Dia, Danielle, Christina (whom she helped raise and thirteen others; a host of nieces, nephews, great and great-great grand- children’s, devoted friend, Iona Johnson; and many many others.

Tributes

Estelle Parker

January 29, 1918 - June 9, 2002