Jane E. Parker

Jane E. (Merchant) Parker, 86, of Pitcher, NY, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the Guthrie Cortland Regional Medical Center, Cortland, NY.

Born in Truxton, NY, on July 22, 1938, Jane was the daughter of the late Selah and Mina Waite Merchant. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many in her community.

Throughout her life, Jane dedicated herself to her career and family. In her younger years, she worked at the auction house in Apulia Station. She fondly worked alongside her mother, Mina Merchant, cleaning various homes in the Cazenovia area, a job that she approached with diligence and pride. She also operated "Grandma's Pantry" in South Otselic with her mother. In partnership with her husband, Colonel Hugh Parker, Jane operated the Parker Auction and Realty in South Otselic, where they shared a passion for antiques, often selling items from their home.

Jane’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished alongside her daughter, Donna. Together, they owned the Country Creations Craft Store in Pitcher, where Jane’s creativity shone through in the crafts she passionately created and shared with her customers.

In her leisure time, Jane found joy in gardening, completing jigsaw puzzles, crafting, and immersing herself in the pages of a good book. These hobbies reflected her vibrant spirit and love for creating beauty in the world around her.

Jane is survived by her daughter, Donna (Dean) Catlin of Pitcher; her son, Bobby (Jolynn) Parker of DeRuyter; her daughter, Melissa (Joseph Thomas) Parker of DeRuyter; her son-in-law, Jerry Whorrall of South Otselic; her sister, Peggy Johnson of Bath, NH; and her sister, Margie (Stan) Merchant of Lenoir, NC. Jane also leaves behind several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom will cherish her memory and the love she imparted to them.

In addition to her parents, Jane is predeceased by her husband, Colonel Hugh Parker; her daughter, Judy Whorrall; and her siblings, Pat Marris, Jim Merchant, and Jerry Merchant.

In keeping with her wishes, private graveside services will be held at the convenience of the family.  Expressions of sympathy in memory of Jane may be directed to a charity of one's choice.