Mr. Talma Parham

Talma Parham, 91, of Peoria, IL peacefully transitioned from this life to eternal life on Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at Heddington Oaks Care Center in West Peoria. Talma was born October 3, 1925 in Etta, Mississippi to Oscar and Maggie (Ivy) Parham. He honorably served our country in the US Navy during World War II. After his military tour of duty, he married Arnola Rutherford on April 23, 1949 in New Albany, MS. To their union four daughters were born, Lanelda, Carolyn, Sherry and Jennifer. Arnola passed away December 7, 1999 after more than 50 years of marriage. Talma was a gentle man and great provider for his family. He formerly worked for Armour Packing Company for many years; later retiring from Caterpillar, Inc., in 1988. He was a faithful member of Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ for over 25 years where he served as aTrustee and Board member. He was also known for his devoted service to the van ministry, culinary ministry, hospitality ministry and his dependability for having the church doors opened for funeral services. Talma loved his family and having morning coffee with his buddies. Talma leaves to cherish his most precious memories his loving and devoted daughters; Lanelda (Benjamin) Kelson of Lawrenceville, GA, Carolyn (Max) Parham, Sherry (Bishop Timothy) Criss and Jennifer (Jacob) Williams all of Peoria; seven grandchildren, Christopher (Tasha) Parham, Tekia (Charles) Childs, Timony (Kevin) Kirkwood, Ricky (Tereta) Rutherford, Brandon (LaPorsha) Brown, Arienne (Benjamin) Thornton and Candi Witherspoon; 20 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is also survived by his special friend, Yvonne Jordan. He is also preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, DeWitt Parham, Matthew Parham, William Parham and Casey Parham; four sisters, Mattie Parham, Dale Parham, Selma Willis and Sarah Williams and one great grandson, Kaeden Kirkwood. Funeral services will be held at 11 am, on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at Pentecostal Church of Jesus Christ with a visitation beginning at 10 am. Host Pastor, District Elder Henry L. Bolden, II. Suffragan Bishop James Ware will officiate. Bishop Timothy E. Criss will bring the eulogy. Talma will be laid to rest at Parkview Cemetery where US Navy Military Honors will be rendered. Simons Mortuary has been entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at simonsmortuary.com

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Mr. Talma Parham

October 3, 1925 - January 18, 2017