Iretha Parker

Iretha was born to (the late) Willie Oscar Whigham and Zelma Mitchell Whigham on February 12, 1931 in Lyons, Georgia. Nicknamed "Reet" (her brother Jake called her "Pete"), Iretha was educated in the Lyons public school system.

In 1949, Iretha left Georgia for New York City in search of better employment opportunities.  After working several domestic jobs, Iretha found a career as a printer for Sterling Mounting Printers in New York City.  She worked for Sterling for many years until the company closed. After her tenure as a printer, Iretha found employment as an institutional aide in the pharmacy department at Jacobi Hospital in the Bronx. Iretha was known for being a hard worker, and was often sought out by her co-workers for advice.

Iretha was married to Willie Parker, Jr.  She raised four children: Anthony, Willie, Melvin and Vanessa in the Abraham Lincoln Houses in Harlem.  She was one of the beloved mothers of "2175" (Lincoln Houses).  She would often take her children and their friends on various outings to such places as Orchard Beach, The Bronx Zoo and Coney Island.

During the 1970s, Iretha became a member of the Metropolitan A.M.E. Church in Harlem under the leadership of The Reverend Robert Pruitt. She was a faithful member of the Pastor's Aide Ministry and the Organized Lay Ministry.  In 2014, she was one of the senior members honored by the church.  Iretha was supportive of the entire church community both financially and spiritually.  She often blessed the church with her baking delights.  Right up until her death, Iretha remained a faithful member of the church under the leadership of The Reverend Dr. Kim W. Anderson.

A master chef and baker, Iretha was often in demand to utilize her culinary skills.  From her fried chicken, macaroni & cheese, and carrot salad to her caramel and chocolate cakes (to name a few), she created lasting memories for many. And who could ever forget the variety of cakes she baked every Christmas?  Iretha was a confidante and mentor to many.  The doors of her home were always open to family and friends.

On Thursday, December 3, 2020, Iretha became absent from the body and present with the Lord.  She leaves to mourn her passing, her sons: Anthony (Beatrice), Willie (Anne) and Melvin (Doris); grandchildren: Marlon, Cory, Erika, Nicole, Justin and Jessica; great-grandchildren: Ma’Rae, Aniah, Brooke, Monay and Olivia; her aunt Alzona (Connie); Willie Parker, Jr.; extended family: Alfonso Owens, Ronald (Carol), and Pat (John); and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and her Sunrise Assisted Living Community.

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