Dona Lea (Bays) Parks

Dona Lea Parks, 93, of Metamora, IL passed away at 11:01 am on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at her residence at Snyder Village in Metamora.

She was born on June 12, 1930, in Moweaqua, IL, to Cletus B. and Josephine (Stiner) Bays. She married Clarence D. Parks on August 13, 1950 in Washington, IL. He passed away on August 26, 1986.

Surviving are her children, Richard (Julie) Parks of Creve Coeur, IL, Debra (Steve) Woodworth of Westminster, CO, Pamela (Bob) Metz of Wentzville, MO, and Steven (Teresa) Parks of Metamora, IL; ten grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; brothers, William (Joy) Bays of Princeville, IL and Cletus J. Bays of East Peoria, IL; sister-in-law, Wynema Parks of Metamora, IL. She was preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter Kara Beth Parks, and great-granddaughter Faith Nicole Metz.

Dona worked on the Army Base at Las Cruces, New Mexico. She was a member of Christian Union Church in Metamora since 1957 where she was active in Philathea, a Sunday School teacher, sang in the choir for 60 years, the Women's Guild, church treasurer, and director of the funeral dinners at the church. Dona was a bookkeeper and administrative assistant to the superintendents at Metamora Grade School for 27 years. She was a former treasurer for the Old Settlers Board, Girl Scout leader, MTHS band boosters member, and volunteered at Snyder Village. Dona enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, and all kinds of crafts.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, October 9, 2023 at Christian Union Church with Reverend Gary Salm officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until service time, also on Monday at the church. Burial will be held in Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora. A funeral dinner will be held following the graveside service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the South Side Mission, 1127 South Laramie Street, Peoria, IL 61605. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

South Side Mission
1127 South Laramie Street, Peoria IL 61605