Diane Parker

Carol “Diane” Parker, 75, of Floris, IA passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026 in Des Moines, IA at Des Moines Mercy Hospital.

Diane was born on July 10, 1949 to Duane “Bucky” and Helen Lu Scott Weir in Ottumwa, IA.

She married Francis Garrels and from that union they had two children, Kim and Tim. They later divorced. She married Ozzie Essary and they had one child, John. Ozzie preceded her in death in 1991.

Diane then married Bob Parker and they spent many great years together. Bob passed away in 2019.

Diane worked at several jobs as a waitress for friends’ businesses, she worked at Excel, she was a certified bookkeeper and was also a housewife.

Diane’s favorite thing to do was to read. She loved books and also enjoyed the occasional trips to the casino!

Left to share her story are her children, Kim Chickering (Chic Worth), Tim (Diana) Garrels and John (Barb) Essary; grandchildren Amber Collins, Hunter Collins, Megan Garrels, Mackenzie Garrels, Lyle Essary and Peyton Essary; and three great grandchildren; siblings, Dave (Patty) Weir and Jeanne Weir (Mike Turner); two stepsons, Darrin Parker and Robert Parker; and family friend, Ronnie Potts, who was like a son to Diane and Bob; as well as her beloved cat, Herman, who was a stray and became her constant companion and buddy.
Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Bucky and Helen Lu; her husbands, Ozzie Essary and Robert Parker.

As were Diane’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday April 18, 2026 at2:00PM at the Wapello County Fair Grounds - Wapello Hall. Memorials may be made to the Eldon Public Library and may be mailed c/o Cranston Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556.