Virginia McKenzie

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Virginia Parker McKenzie, 86, Neosho, entered into rest on August 31, 2014 in Neosho at her home, following a two month illness. 

Virginia was born July 31, 1928 in Verona, MO, the last of six children born to Noble D. and Katherine (Seitnater) Parker. She moved to Neosho in 1936 with her family and graduated from high school in 1946 and in that same year, began her employment with Empire District Electric Co. She graduated from a meter order clerk to her final position as district manager of the Neosho office and after 44 years, retired in 1992. In her career with Empire District, she worked with legislature in Jefferson City for five years in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Her experiences there were especially meaningful in that she met many other people throughout the State and learned about the workings of our State Government. Virginia was especially proud to have helped to raise the funds for the building of the Newton County Senior Center in Neosho and held a special love for those senior citizens who helped her complete this project as well as for Max Lampo, her co-chair. She served on the Neosho Area Business and Industrial Foundation, Incorporated Board from 1987-1990 and was a member of the steering committee and volunteer for the Food Basket Brigade. 

Following her retirement, she spent her time pursuing her interest in golf, her home and yard and her church work. She was a member of Twin Hills Ladies Golf Club and enjoyed playing gin rummy with other friends. She was a long time member of St. Canera Catholic Church where she participated in the many activities of the church. 

Virginia married Cyril (Mac) McKenzie in 1983 and they shared twelve wonderful years together, traveling throughout the country playing many different golf courses. Mac preceded her in death on February 16, 1996. Virginia is survived by Mac’s two children, Lynn McKenzie Hunter of Panama City, FL and Mark Arthur McKenize of Joplin, MO; nineteen nieces and nephews who she dearly loved, as well as two sisters in law, Helen Lillibridge Parker of Rolla, MO and Marion Dowler Parker of Elgin, TX. She leaves many girl-friend golfers with which she played many a game and enjoyed their friendship and camaraderie. In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by five siblings, William, Thomas, Paul and Gene Parker and Mary Katherine Britt.

Rosary Service

6:30 PM, Thursday, September 4, 2014
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850
Following the Rosary service the visitation will be helduntil 7:30 PM, Thursday, September 4, 2014
Clark Chapel of Memories
312 S. Wood St. Neosho, Mo 64850

Funeral Mass

Noon, Friday, September 5, 2014
St. Canera Catholic Church
504 S. Washington Neosho, MO 64850