Mildred Parker

Mildred "Millie" Marie (Cathey) Parker, 91, departed this life to be with her heavenly father on August 17, 2016. Millie was born in Bell County, TX on September 16, 1924, the daughter of Leonard and Ethyl (Edwards) Cathey.

She spent her childhood on the family farm, and after graduating high school, began her adult life employed as a switchboard operator at Fort Hood, TX during WWII. There she met the love of her life, Paul J. Parker, and on December 7, 1945 in Temple, TX, they joined their lives in marriage and embarked on their 71 year journey of fulfilling their dreams of a happy and successful life. Over the years, as a devoted helpmate and homemaker, Mildred created comfortable homes for her family in Austin, Edinburgh, McAllen, Houston, Little Rock, Dallas, and finally retiring to their ranch in Smithville.

Mildred was employed by Allstate Insurance in Houston as a claims adjustor for 8 years. Along with her impeccable decorating skills, she excelled in many varied artistic talents, ranging from her love for fashion design, sewing, and craft hobbyist, as well as dancing, reading, bridge, crossword puzzles, and foreign travel. Passionate about painting, she was a multi-term president of the Art League of Smithville. She was a contributor to and member of the Masonic Shrine "Hundred Million Dollar Club" which raises funds to support hospitals for needy crippled or burned children. She was a member of the Episcopal Churches in Bastrop and La Grange.

Mildred was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was a dignified, impeccable and meticulous person who set high standards for all family members, and provided encouragement in all endeavors. She was truly an inspiration and enriched the lives of all who were around her.
Mildred's survivors include her husband of 71 years, Paul J. Parker; daughter, Cynthia (Don) Dick of La Grange; granddaughters Paige (Todd) Reed of Houston, and, Heather Dick of Pearland; grandson, Michael Dick of La Grange; great-grandsons, Parker and Preston Cheney of Houston; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is pre-deceased by her parents, three sisters and two brothers.

Private interment was held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Smithville, TX.

Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Smithville Public Library, or Art League of Smithville. Mildred's family welcomes messages from her friends and family at email: WeRememberMillie@yahoo.com.