Normia Jean Parkin, a recent resident and cherished member of
the Alton community, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 21, 2026,
at the age of 92.
Lovingly known as “Meemaw” by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren,
Normia was a beacon of strength, resilience, strong will, and hard-work ethic.
She was a force to be lovingly reckoned with throughout her life. She was the
beloved wife of 46 years to the late Jim Parkin.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Frederich Dirickson and Jewell Edna
Dirickson-Montgomery; her son, Jimmy Parkin; her stepson, David Parkin; and
her brothers, Don, Calvin, and Fred Dirickson.
Normia dedicated 30 years of her professional life to Bell Telephone / AT&T,
where she wore many hats and served as Group Chief Operator. Her career was
marked by unwavering commitment, leadership, and dedication—qualities that
earned her the deep respect of her colleagues.
“Momma Jean,” “Meemaw,” and “NJ” is survived by her two equally strongwilled daughters, Bjaye Greer of Alton, Illinois, and St. Louis, and Judy Parkin of
St. Louis, who were her steadfast companions and caretakers. She also leaves
behind her most cherished grandchildren, Andrea Greer-LaTrasse and Ryan
Greer; her loving granddaughter-in-law, Jami Stratton Greer; and her cherished
grandson-in-law, Josiah LaTrasse.
In keeping with her love of nature, her remarkably successful “green thumb”
endeavors, and her nurturing spirit, donations in memory of Normia Jean Parkin
may be made to the Arbor Day Foundation.
Her family and friends will forever hold the memory of Normia’s stalwart spirit
and loving nature in their hearts. She will be deeply missed by her family and the
dedicated girlfriends with whom she laughed, dined, and traveled. Her legacy of
love and laughter will continue to inspire all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in her hometown of Poplar Bluff,
Missouri. Gent Funeral Home in Alton, Illinois, is in charge of arrangements.
Additional information and online guestbook are available at www.gentfuneralhome.com.