Reatha Lorraine Parker, fondly known as Reatha, passed away on June 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and service. Born on July 19, 1963, in Granite City, IL, Reatha was a radiant beacon of positivity, whose life was a testament to the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
Reatha’s journey brought her to Centerville, Iowa, where her loving spirit found its true calling in healthcare. As a nurse, she dedicated her life to healing others, offering not just her professional expertise but her heartfelt empathy. Her work was not merely a job to her, but a vocation, a manifestation of her inherent desire to make a difference. Reatha’s patients often remarked that her nurturing presence was itself a form of medicine, providing comfort in the most challenging times. Her colleagues admired her for her unwavering dedication and her ability to bring warmth and joy into even the most stressful situations.
She is survived by her beloved son, Coty Parker, Jeremy Parker, and cherished family members, Julie and Judi Byrom; Jill Rulo; Jason and Tony Rulo. Her vibrant spirit continues to live on through them. Reatha was preceded in death by her parents, Virginia and Elmer Cannon, and her sister Reda Baughman. Her memory will be forever rooted in the hearts of those who loved her, and her legacy will continue to inspire those who were touched by her kindness and compassion.
In the words of Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Retha lived this truth, leaving an indelible mark on all those she encountered. We invite friends and family to celebrate Reatha’s life by sharing their memories and uploading photos to her memorial page. May these reflections bring comfort and serve as a tribute to a life well-lived.
