Ruth Ann “Ruthie” Parker, 85, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at Oakview Nursing Home. She was born on June 1, 1941, in West Salem, Illinois, the daughter of Clifton and Emily (Robinson) McDowell. Ruthie graduated from Edwards County High School in 1959. She married Don Parker in July of 1960, and together they enjoyed sixty-five years of marriage centered on their family.
Ruthie deeply loved taking care of others, whether it was making meals or taking them on little adventures. She especially enjoyed her many girls’ trips to Branson, Missouri, with friends and family. Ruthie was a talented artist who loved to paint and created many beautiful paintings throughout the years. She shared her talent with others by teaching painting classes at Wabash Valley College for fourteen years, as well as classes in West Salem and in her own shop for many years. Her students ranged in age from five to ninety-nine years old. Ruthie deeply loved her family and will be missed by all who knew her.
Ruthie will be remembered by her son, Dean Parker of Mt. Carmel; daughter, Jenny (Brett) Speir of Albion; grandchildren, Stacey (Caleb) Gawthorp of Mt. Carmel, Brad (Ashley) Berberich of Albion, Nikki (Kris) Grindle of Mt. Carmel, Dakota Parker of Albion, and Colton (Mandi) Speir of Albion; great grandchildren, Tucker, Treyson, Tayah, McKenna, Briyer, Max, Alex, Landon, Madi, Kaylee, Gemma, and Graham; sister-in-law, Phyllis Moore of Leland, North Carolina; many nieces and nephews; and her very best friend, Judy Shular. Ruthie was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Don Parker; brothers, Clayton, Jim, and Richard McDowell; and sister, Patsy Kitchene.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff at Oakview Nursing Home for the care and comfort they provided Ruthie.
In keeping with Ruthie’s wishes, no public services will be held at this time.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Ruthie’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Parker family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
