Charlene Parker

Charlene Kaye (Larkin) Parker, 78, died April 1 at Topeka Presbyterian Manor. She was born March 1, 1936, in Florence to Charles and Pauline (Lowther) Larkin.

She married Marvin Parker on June 8, 1963, at Florence Christian Church. He preceded her in death in 2001. They were longtime members of Northland Christian Church.

She graduated from Florence High School in 1954 and received a teaching degree from Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia in 1958. She began her teaching career at Fredonia High School, moving to Highland Park Junior High and then to Eisenhower Junior High.

She later taught at Logan Junior High and Seaman High School. She retired in 1993. During her time as a teacher, she was also a cheerleading sponsor, softball coach, and scorekeeper for many athletic events.

She is survived by a son, Jeff Parker; a daughter, Alison Davis; two brothers, Jack Larkin and Ron Larkin; and three granddaughters.

Funeral services were Friday at Central Park Christian Church in Topeka. Visitation was Thursday at Davidson Funeral Home.

Memorial funds have been established with Topeka Presbyterian Manor and Midland Hospice.