Doris Mae Parham

Doris Mae Parham, age 82, passed away in Indianapolis, Indiana on March 30, 2025. She is preceded in death by her mother, Pearl Bush (Nelson Greer) and her siblings: Betty, Adam, Sylvia, Sherrie, and Kenneth.

Born January 19, 1943 in the small town of Earle, Arkansas, Doris Parham began life as Doris Bush, daughter of Pearl Bush. Under the loving care of her maternal grandparents until she was 14, Doris carried out the values of her early upbringing throughout her life. Seeking new opportunities, she ventured to Chicago where she completed her education at Morgan Park High School and dedicated her 20s and 30s to caring for others as a CNA.

It was in the Windy City of Chicago during the 1950s that she met Columbus "Jake" Parham, who would become her husband on a spring day—March 18, 1963. Though she embraced city life, Doris never let go of her southern roots, keeping family at the heart of everything. 1983 marked a new chapter when Doris and Jake moved to Indianapolis, Indiana to raise their children, Tonya and Anthony. A devoted mother, she immersed herself in her children's school activities before returning to work as a beloved cafeteria lady at Francis Scott Key #103 for seven years.

In retirement, Doris spent her days enjoying retirement with her husband until his passing in 2016. She became a neighborhood treasure—the "candy lady" who delighted local children with freeze pops and treats during summer days. A woman of faith, she attended Rock of Faith Church until 2020, ultimately spending her golden years cherishing precious moments with her children and grandchildren.

Doris is survived by her eldest son, Delmar Bush of Illinois; eldest daughter, Tonya Parham of Indiana; youngest son, Anthony Parham (Sonia) of Indiana; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sisters: LeVaughn Greer of Tennessee, Kathleen and Cindy, both of Illinois; brothers: Ricky of Tennessee, Daniel and Phillip, both of Illinois; and a hist of loving family and friends.