Diane Ruth Parker

June 6, 1956 – March 26, 2021

Diane Ruth Parker was born to Desmond R. and Margarete E. H. Parker in Oceanside, NY as their first born daughter. She was devotedly cared for by her father, mother and grandmother, Elfriede, and in her adult years in Pennsylvania by the Redco Group in Reading, PA.

When Diane was a young child, her mother knew that she was special and spoke with doctors about her developmental delays. For years, her mother assumed it was due to a high fever which caused her physical disabilities. It was not known until 1993 that her delays were due to a chromosomal deletion. Her spirit was never affected and she found joy in many pastimes: watching baseball, looking at magazines, humming to music, going on long car rides and beach excursions. She was an intrepid traveler both at home and abroad, including trips to Las Vegas, Hawaii and while living overseas in Isfahan, Iran including Holland, Israel and Germany. She did have a slightly naughty side, as well – beware of the hair pulling! She had a grip that could rival a vice!!

Diane attended schools supported by the AHRC of Nassau (Long Island) and Prospectus Berco (Berks County, PA). She lived at home until 2007 when the Redco Group took over her care and lived in a group home in Blandon, PA. She was lovingly cared for by Angela Rivera, Aissatou, Francis, Paul, Comfort, Dalila, Vanessa, Karamo, Mirielle, Julieana and Abdulai.

Diane battled many physical disabilities, but her smile and eye twinkle would always bring a smile to those around her. She was predeceased by her mother and her Aunt Ruth and Uncle Tony. Her father and sisters, Melanie and Corinne, along with her four nephews: Parker, Benner, Connor and Ethan will have many memories of their special relative.

In lieu of donations, our wish is that people treat those who are different with kindness and respect. Please think of Diane when you meet someone who is a bit odd, but needs your understanding.