Ruth M. Parkes

Alton: Ruth M. Parkes, 90, passed away at 12:45pm on Wednesday, November 6, 2019, in the emergency room at Alton Memorial Hospital. She was born on November 5, 1929, in Alton, the daughter of the late Malcolm and Dorothy (Gore) O’Neal. She married Edward Parkes on August 14, 1975, in Macoupin County and he preceded her in death on December 2, 1993. Survivors include two sons: James Edwards and his wife: Katherine of Rosewood Heights, Timothy Edwards and his husband: Gilbert Gallegos- Edwards of San Antonio, Texas, several grandchildren, several great grandchildren, a niece: Marcia Eng of Glen Carbon, and many other extended family and friends. Ruth was formerly employed at St. Joseph’s Hospital in the office and later at Heitz Optical. She enjoyed genealogy, reading, and doing crossword puzzles. In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter: Sheryl Piening White, a son: Mark Edwards, and a sister: Virginia Hutton. In celebration of her life, visitation will be from 2pm until time of services at 4pm on Sunday, November 10, 2019, at Pitchford Funeral Home in Wood River. Pastor Rodney Durr will officiate. Private graveside services will be held on Monday, November 11, 2019, at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey. Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society Relay for Life Riverbend and will be accepted at the funeral home.