Constance Louise (Collins) Parker

Connie Parker, 90, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on March 26, 2017. She and her husband, Otis, have been residents of the Highlands at Wyomissing for the past 17 years.

Connie’s life stands as a hallmark to strong women everywhere. After losing her father at the age of 6, she proved herself to be independent and hard-working, keeping up her studies at Reading High School, while volunteering for her church and the war effort. She began her career at Whitner’s Department Store, then worked for many years as a Bell Telephone operator. She later served as the Rental Manager at Cambridge Commons Apartments and the Lakes Apartments of Allentown, and finally as a Marketing Director for the Highlands at Wyomissing. Connie was the first Highlands employee, starting their Marketing Department and selling the first units to active seniors. Her friends and family remember her most for her generosity to others, for throwing fabulous parties and picnics, for her love of organizing social events with her female friends, namely her Bridge Club, Breakfast Club and Luncheon Group, and her love of travel, with Otis and their friends.

Born in Bethlehem, Connie was one quarter Native American, descended from the Powhatans of Virginia, the daughter of the late Helen R. Collins (“Gommer”), and Constantine Collins. She is survived by her husband, Otis Hudson Parker, who is most grateful to Connie for the laughter and love they shared for 42 years. She is also survived by both her son, Craig Thompson Walter (wife, Sheila) of Wyomissing, who is thankful that his mother bought him his first guitar; and her daughter, Ellen Collins Walter of Wyomissing, who thanks her mother for allowing her to begin piano lessons at the age of four. Connie enjoyed the love of her four grand-children, Michael, Courtney, Caitlin and Cara, her four step-children, Julie, Kenny, Bobby and John, and her many cousins.

Connie’s urn will reside at Atonement Lutheran Church in Wyomissing, but her spirit will enjoy dual residency both in heaven and in the hearts of the many friends and family members with whom her laughter and kindness will remain. The family would like to express their deep gratitude to all of the amazing and caring staff at the Highlands who made Connie’s final years comfortable and filled with love and compassion.

There will be a Celebration of Connie’s Life at the Highlands at Wyomissing, 2000 Cambridge Avenue, Wyomissing, PA, on Monday, April 3, at 10:30 AM, and the family will receive guests from 9:30AM to the time of service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Genesius Theatre, 153 N. 10th St., Reading, PA 19601, in her memory.

Please leave condolences online at www.henningerfuneralhome.com
Henninger Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements

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