Merle M. Parkinson

Merle Marie Parkinson, 78, of Washington, died Monday, May 6, 2002, in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, following a brief illness. She was born July 9, 1923, in Washington, a daughter of Alonzo (Lonnie) and LuLu May Moore Ward. Mrs. Parkinson was a homemaker and attended Washington schools. She was Protestant. Mrs. Parkinson enjoyed caring for her son. On February 13, 1941, she married Raymond Parkinson, who died March 27, 1998. Surviving are three sons, Raymond Parkinson of Washington, Stanley Parkinson of Chicopee, Mass., and Robert Parkinson, at home; five daughters, Joyce Wiley and Kathy Ondash, both of Houston, Sharon Zets of Washington, Mary Crawford of Marianna and Tracy Heatley, at home; a brother, Robert Ward of Washington; a sister, Anna Roupe of Washington; 19 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are three sisters, Helen Lang, Ruth Knestrick and Mary Jones; and two brothers, Edward and William Ward. PARKINSON - A memorial service for Merle Marie Parkinson of Washington, who died Monday, May 6, 2002, will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, May 11, in William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, with Pastor Paul George officiating. Interment will follow in Washington Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, 135 South College Street, Washington, PA 15301, or to a charity of one's choice. Additional information is available and tributes can be made online at www.NealFuneralHome.com.