Arla Parkison

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Arla Jean Parkison, of Webb City, Missouri, passed away on Monday, May 13, 2024, after a recent battle with cancer. Born on August 13, 1945, in Galesburg, Illinois, Arla's friendly nature and love for life touched many throughout her 78 years. She departed this world at Carthage Health and Rehab in Carthage, Missouri, leaving behind a legacy of love, music, and unwavering faith.

Raised in Cameron and Stronghurst, Illinois, Arla was a graduate of Stronghurst High School, class of 1963. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to further her education at Ozark Bible College and Missouri Southern State College after moving to Joplin, Missouri, with her beloved husband, Stan Parkison, in 1966. The couple's enduring love began when they united in marriage on November 28, 1965, and together they built a life filled with joy and devotion.

Arla's professional journey was marked by dedication and excellence. She retired from Empire Electric in 2010 after twenty-six years of service in the accounting department. Her commitment to her work was paralleled only by her commitment to her faith. A devout member of First Christian Church in Webb City for over fifty years, Arla shared her musical talents by playing the piano and organ, uplifting the congregation with her passion for worship.

Her love for sports was evident in her role as a girls' basketball coach at Ozark Bible College, where she led and inspired young athletes for seven years. Arla's interests extended beyond the basketball court; she cherished her time at Stockton Lake, embraced the beauty of poetry, and found great joy in the fellowship of her church family.

Arla's life was enriched by her cherished family. She is survived by her steadfast husband, Stan Parkison; her son, Don Parkison, and his wife, Karen, of Springfield, Missouri; her adored grandchildren, Joshua, Kayla, and Chelsea Parkison; and her great-grandchildren, Cadence Thomson, Oliver Thomson, and Lucy Gomez. Her brothers, Robert Effland and his wife, Betty, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, and David Effland and his wife, Genie, of Austin, Texas; her sister, Janet Laue and her husband, Ron, of Burlington, Iowa; and her sister-in-law, Penny Vaughn of Monmouth, Illinois, also survive her. Arla's life was a tapestry of deep connections, and she will be fondly remembered by a host of other family members and friends.

Arla was preceded in death by her parents, O.C. and Helen (Huff) Effland; her stepmother, Anna Effland; and her brothers, Gene Vaughn and Terry Effland.

Arla Jean Parkison's life story is one of unwavering love, service, and the joy of music. Her spirit, friendliness, and kindness were the hallmarks of her existence. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we celebrate the indelible mark she has left on the hearts of all who knew her. Arla's melody will resonate in the memories of her loved ones, and her legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have been part of her life's journey.

Funeral services are 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at First Christian Church in Webb City with Pastors Lynn Ragsdale, Paul Stetler and Jeff White officiating. Burial will follow at Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery in Joplin. The family will receive friends on Tuesday evening, May 28, 2024, from 5-7:00 p.m. at First Christian Church. In lieu of flowers memorials are being directed to First Christian Church c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri.