Susan Bechtel Parker

Born on October 29, 1937, in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, Susan Bechtel Parker (Sue) was the beloved daughter of Eleanor Scheffey Bechtel and Jesse Bertolet Bechtel. Sue grew up in a close and loving family and carried throughout her life the values of kindness, resilience, and generosity. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Westminster College in New Wilmington, Pennsylvania, where she formed lifelong friendships and nurtured her love of learning.

Sue lived with remarkable energy, curiosity, and gratitude. Guided by deep faith, she embraced life with optimism and enthusiasm. Her bright blue eyes and warm smile lit up every room, and she had a gift for making others feel welcome and valued.

After marrying Thomas Richard Parker in 1964, they began their life together in Brooklyn Heights, New York, before settling in Summit, New Jersey, where they raised their family. In retirement, they moved to Zionsville, Pennsylvania, where they built their dream home and created a gathering place for family and friends. Sue especially enjoyed gardening, hosting family celebrations, and participating in her church choir and bell choir.

Service was central to Sue’s life. She volunteered as a Girl Scout leader, homeroom mom, Hospice volunteer, and supporter of numerous community organizations, including the Summit YWCA, the Shade Tree Committee in Macungie, and the Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center. Whether helping a neighbor or knitting winter caps for children in need, she believed in the power of kindness.

Sue was an avid bridge player, reader, traveler, and lover of the arts. Through Dick’s international career, she enjoyed traveling abroad with him. In the 1980’s she also co-founded “Second Hand Pros” estate sale services with her dear friend Diane Johnson, combining her entrepreneurial spirit with her love of people, antiques, and helping families through times of transition. Also important to note was Sue’s unwavering support of her Philadelphia Phillies, she was a true & loyal Phanatic!

Above all, Sue’s greatest joy in life was her family. Her love was unconditional, her encouragement unwavering, and her presence a constant source of comfort and strength. Sue is lovingly remembered by her family, including: Thomas Richard Parker - her devoted husband of more than 61 years; her children: Sara Parker Henderson, Rebecca Parker Abbott (Derek), and Thomas Bechtel Parker (Anne), and her eight beloved grandchildren, William Henderson, Timothy Henderson, Charlotte Abbott Berner, Hope Abbott, Paige Abbott, Katie Parker, Matthew Parker and Lizzie Parker.

Sue’s life was a beautiful example of loving deeply, giving generously, and living joyfully. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend her Celebration of Life on Saturday July 11, 2026, at 11a.m. at Wayne Presbyterian Church in Wayne, PA. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society (Link to Donate) or the Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center (Link to Donate).