Dianne J. (Weaver) Parker
Dianne J. (Weaver) Parker, age 75, of McKean, passed away on Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Born in Erie, PA on May 4, 1950, Dianne was the second of twelve children to Rob and Irene (Pagan) Weaver. She grew up having all sorts of fun adventures with her siblings on the family farm in McKean, PA. Although she traveled extensively during her lifetime, McKean was always home. Dianne married the love of her life, James T. “Tom” Parker, on November 8, 1985. She and her husband, affectionately called Parker, built a house on a section of that original family farm. That house became their home for 40 years, and the place where they welcomed countless family and friends. Many of those friends became like family to them. Dianne was the proud mother of James C. Shields Jr. and Katherine J. Bookhamer, and her honorary middle child, Gosha Riley. All of her kids and grandkids were her true joy. As their biggest fan, she traveled around the world to visit and support her kids and grandkids through the years.
Over the years, Dianne excelled in many careers that she loved—sales and driving school bus to name a couple. Yet her passion was always serving through the Women’s Care Center of Erie, PA. She worked at WCC for years and was on the Board and volunteered even longer. Dianne was good at anything she set her mind to. To use the word “hobby” hardly does justice to the incredible talent and love she poured into her flower beds, paintings, quilts, and afghans. She was an active member of Dorchester Drive Bible Church.
Dianne had an undeniable gift for hospitality. The doors of their home were always open, and the guest bed was always ready with clean sheets. There was never a time when Dianne and Tom were not hosting a Bible study group in their home. With fresh baked cookies always ready and flowers from her garden on the counter, she made everyone feel at home. All of this stemmed from a deep love for the Lord and other people. As talented as she was, she won’t be remembered for her gorgeous paintings or coveted afghans. She will be remembered for the extraordinary ways she loved others. She loved so well because she lived the love of Jesus.
The legacy she leaves behind will live on through all who knew and loved her. Dianne is survived by nine siblings, her husband, her children, their spouses, and her grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held in the spring, when the daffodils are blooming, at Dorchester Drive Bible Church. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be sent to: Women’s Care Center, 4408 Peach Street, Suite 202, Erie, PA 16509.