Search Results

Parker -- Thelma Parker, 72, of Portales, passed away Tuesday, September 14, 1999, as a result of an automobile accident east of Portales. Thelma was born October 8, 1926 near O'Donnell, Texas, the first born to Eula and Grady (Red) Best. Her education was in Texas, except for her senior year. The family moved to a ranch near Elida on July 22, 1942. Thelma graduated from Floyd High with the Class of 1943. She attended ENMU from 1943-1944. On April 27, 1946, Thelma married Alva J. Parker in Roswell. To this union three children were born, Linda, Charlene and Alan. The children grew up on the family ranch west of Floyd. Thelma was active in the children's activities and worked beside Alva J. on the ranch. In 1976, she was employed by Dr. E.L. Miller. She began a new career in 1978 that would last 21 years as the Roosevelt County Tax Assessor or Chief Deputy of this office. She worked in this office until her retirement in 1999. During this time, she was an avid supporter of all the grandchildren's activities and a die hard Floyd Bronco fan. Democratic Women and DAR were organizations that she was active in. After retirement, she enjoyed hobbies of gourd painting and other arts, but mostly caring for her family. Thelma was preceded in death by her father, Red Best on February 20, 1974; and her daughter, Linda McAlister on July 23, 1990. She is survived by Alva J. Parker, her husband of more than 53 years, of Portales; son and daughter-in-law, Alan and Elizabeth Parker of Portales; daughter and son-in-law, Charlene and Dale Yoder of Farmington; her mother, Eula Best of Farwell, TX; brother, Wendell Best of Elida, NM; sisters, Evelyn Kerby and Billie Cooper, both of Portales; nine grandchildren, Wayne McAlister, Blake McAlister, Brady McAlister, Leah Babbitt, John Reavis Purser, David J. Perez, Quinn Parker, Brittany Parker and Shawna Parker; and three great-grandchildren, Taryn McAlister, Taylor McAlister and Cole Babbitt. Funeral services will be Friday, September 17, 1999, 2:00 p.m., at First Baptist Church in Portales, with Rev. Dale Yoder, assisted by Scott Reeves, officiating. Burial will be in the Floyd Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Wayne McAlister, Blake McAlister, Brady McAlister, John Reavis Purser, David J. Perez and Quinn Parker.
        Published on: Fri September 17, 1999