Cheryl D. Parker Aug. 25, 1959 – Dec. 26, 2024

Posted on January 1, 2025

Cheryl D. Parker, 65, of Perry was lovingly called to her heavenly home on Dec. 26, 2024, in Tallahassee. She was born on Aug. 25, 1959, in Eustis, Fla., to TJ and Myrtice Williamson. From a young age, her Christian faith was deeply nurtured, especially during her cherished moments attending church with her grandmother. Cheryl was a talented majorette and an active member of the track team at Eustis High School. Her early career began as a nursing assistant at Waterman’s Hospital, where her compassion shone through. Raised by parents who instilled a love of hunting and f ishing, Cheryl embraced those passions throughout her life. In the early 1980s, Cheryl relocated to Perry, where she met her soulmate, Arvel D. Parker. Breaking barriers, Cheryl became the first female crane operator in the wood yard at Buckeye in Perry. Known for her tireless work ethic and incredible versatility, Cheryl was a “Jack of all trades,” taking on tasks with remarkable skill and determination. Cheryl found joy in many hobbies, including painting, playing the guitar, singing hymns, crocheting, embroidering, drawing, cooking and cake decorating. A devoted Florida Gators fan, she also found immense happiness in fishing and hunting, reliving childhood memories. Most of all, Cheryl loved being a mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, sister and friend. She cherished time with her grandchildren, creating lasting memories through simple joys like sharing icees and ice cream. Cheryl is survived by: four children, Jason (Mandy) Brooks, Melissa (Sam) Smigiel, Jenny (Stacey) and Hathcock Justin Lambert; grandchildren, Austin (whom she thought of as a son) (Danielle) Lambert, Tiffany Smigiel, Nathan Lambert, Kyle Smigiel, Brayley Hathcock, Alexis Lambert, Dalyn Lambert, Radyn Lambert, Emma Lambert, Ericka Lambert and Tyler Lambert; greatgrandchildren, Peyton Lambert, Bentley Lambert, Asher Lambert and Jackson Lambert; and siblings: Billy Williamson, Shannon Baker and Mary Hall. She was preceded in death by: her husband, Arvel D. Parker; parents, TJ and Myrtice Williamson; and brother, Tony Williamson A celebration of Cheryl’s life will be held Friday, Jan. 3, at 3 p.m., at Mt. Carmel Church in Perry. Family and friends are invited to honor and celebrate Cheryl’s life. Her legacy of faith, love and resilience will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.