Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

June 16, 2025

CHARLOTTE - Ruth Crowell Dowdy Parkerson went Home to be with the Lord Jesus on Monday, June 16, 2025.  Her loving son Jim Parkerson was by her side as she entered into God’s presence.  We are thankful that Mother’s final days were peaceful and without suffering.

Ruth was born in Charlotte, North Carolina on June 25, 1937 and spent most of her life in and around the Queen City.  A proud Tarheel, she attended UNC Chapel Hill.  In 1958, Ruth married Walter Tuck Parkerson and God blessed them with three sons and one daughter.

Ruth’s children and grandchildren were her pride and joy. For decades, she served her family as a home room mother, carpool driver, chief cook, dishwasher, and changer of every diaper.

Grammy Ruth, as she was affectionately known, was delighted to spend time with her grandchildren and shower them with love.

A social butterfly, Ruth relished gathering with her friends. They were the pearls on the necklace of her life and extended family. Ruth was a difference maker in Charlotte. Following a tragic accident, she petitioned for a stoplight at the intersection of Runnymede and Colony and won.  She was proud member of the DAR, volunteered with the Junior League of Charlotte, and made time for her passion: teaching adults to read. Her adult literacy group was recognized by First Lady Barbara Bush.

As evidence of Ruth’s wonderful sense of humor, she was selected as “The Livermush Queen” for her story entry to The Charlotte Observer ... remembering how it was once known as "Liverelle."

Ruth loved saying, “You’re as welcome as the flowers in May.” Perhaps those were the words she heard upon entering Heaven as the Lord Jesus welcomed her home forever.

Ruth is predeceased by her beloved parents, George and Ruth Dowdy, her brother George Dowdy Jr., her husband Walter Parkerson and their son Walter Parkerson Jr. She is survived by her daughter Anne Coddington and husband Ron, son Jim Parkerson, son William Parkerson and wife Erica, and grandchildren Hannah Parkerson and Joshua Parkerson.

Ruth’s graveside service will be Saturday, June 21 at 9am at Oakwood Cemetery, 471 Church St. N, Concord, NC 28025.  Pastor Jim Pile from Calvary Church will be officiating.

If you would like to offer an expression of sympathy, please consider giving to Calvary Church or the Junior League of Charlotte in Ruth’s honor, in lieu of flowers.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.