"When we think of beautiful green plants, gentle wind blowing through a window, a comforting smile, and a warm hello, we think of Beverly."

Beverly Marie Russell was born to Beverly Russell and Marie Ross Russell on May 7, 1938 in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. At an early age she was baptized and grew up in the Uganda Martyrs Church.  She was the first born to this union. She has a brother William Russell of Dallas, TX and a sister Teresa Ann Crook of Okmulgee, OK. She was preceded by her parents and husband.

Beverly's academic journey began with her graduating from Dunbar High School in Okmulgee, OK. She later received her Bachelor's Degree of Education at Langston University, along with a Masters and Doctorate of Education Degrees from Oklahoma State University.  Her teaching career began in Eufala, Oklahoma in 1962. Significant historical accomplishments for Dr. Beverly Parker include being one of two African-American teachers to integrate Hawthorne Elementary in Tulsa Public Schools in 1964. She spent the remaining 20 plus years at McLain High School where she retired from TPS in 1992.

She became a proud Soror of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., pledging through the Alpha Zeta Chapter, at Langston University of which she created a legacy for both of her daughters to pledge. Beverly's membership extended to the sisterhood of the Alpha Chi Omega Chapter of Tulsa, OK. She was also a member of the Knights of Saint Peter Clavier, Ladies Auxiliary, and Saint Augustine's Court in Tulsa, Ok. In addition, she participated in various social and leadership organizations throughout her illustrious career.

Beverly was survived by her daughters Crystal Parker Adindu (Samuel), Dallas, TX; Tonya Parker, Dallas, TX; granddaughter Caryssa and grandson Christopher, one brother William Russell, Dallas, TX, one sister Teresa Ann Cook, Okmulgee, OK.  She enjoyed spending time with her family, being a husband, mother, grandmother, and friend.  She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, and faithful friends of the family.

The Funeral Mass for Beverly Marie Parker will be Tuesday May 9, 2017 at 10AM at Uganda Martyr's Catholic Church in Okmulgee.
Committal will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Okmulgee.

Friends may visit Mrs. Parker on Monday from 1PM until 6PM in Okmulgee.

At 6PM, The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. will conduct The Ivy Behind The Wall Ceremony, followed at 7PM by a Rosary & Ladies Auxillary Service.