October 15, 1945 – January 1, 2022
Judy Dian Dalton Parkes, 76, passed away on Saturday morning, January 1, 2022, after complications from a prolonged battle with congestive heart failure. She was born on October 15, 1945, in Danville, Va., to Morgan Oscar Dalton and Mary Etta Smoot Dalton.
While growing up in Danville, Judy’s spiritual journey began early in life when she would walk to the Stokesland Baptist Church each Sunday and became active in her local Youth for Christ chapter. She loved singing and held down the alto part for singing groups throughout high school and college.
Judy met her lifetime love, David Parkes, at Kernersville Wesleyan College in Kernersville, N.C. The two of them would embark on a lifetime of adventures and ministry together, while raising the family she always dreamed of having.
After settling in Indiana, Judy worked on staff in medical offices within the Community Health Network for more than 20 years, where she applied her precise attention to detail and aptitude for organization in scheduling, then insurance precertification. After she retired at 65, she became a full-time “NeeNee” to the six grandchildren who brought her so much joy.
Her gentle nature and quiet strength were qualities that defined her, yet those who knew her also enjoyed her quick sense of humor. She loved nothing more than gathering with friends and family over a good meal. Her gift for hospitality drew countless adopted family members around her table for holidays and dinners over the years.
In addition to her parents, Judy was preceded in death by her husband, David Chandler Parkes, and her infant son, Edwin Chandler Parkes.
She is survived by her daughters, Emily (Scott) Sutherland and Melody (Craig) Boyer; grandchildren, Jackson Sutherland, Riley Sutherland, Ashton Boyer, Avery Boyer, Eli Boyer, and Izzy Boyer; sister, Barbara Dalton Nunn; and brother Tommy Nunn.
A service honoring her life will take place at noon on Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at the Northview Chapel, 12900 Hazel Dell Pkwy., Carmel. Out of respect for the health and safety of all her friends and family, a traditional visitation will not take place before the service. Guests will be invited to write remembrances of Judy and messages to the family which will be cherished for years to come.
Judy will be laid to rest at Highland Cemetery in Fishers at a private graveside service.
Bussell Family Funerals, Carmel-Westfield is privileged to assist the family with arrangements.
Condolences: bussellfamilyfunerals.com