Mrs. Leatrice Claire Parkinson

November 24, 1923 - February 11, 2022

Parkinson – Leatrice Claire Parkinson, age 98, of Neptune Beach, Florida passed away on February 11, 2022, at her residence with her loving family by her side. She was born in Morristown, New Jersey on November 24, 1923, to the late William John Birnbaum and Arabella “Belle” Brannin Birnbaum. Leatrice relocated to Jacksonville Beach as a toddler in 1925. She thoroughly loved the beach and made Jacksonville and Neptune Beach her forever home. She graduated from Fletcher High School and shortly after married the love of her life, Richard Parkinson, on November 15, 1942. Leatrice was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend. She was a proud military wife and took much pride in tending to her family as a homemaker. Leatrice lived a stress-free life and was always content and grateful for life’s blessings. She was an amazing listener, loved hot tea, and making precious memories with her sweet family, especially her grandbabies. She touched many people throughout the years, was deeply loved, and will forever be missed. Leatrice was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Richard Parkinson; parents, William John Birnbaum and Bell Brannin; daughter, Nila Jean Harding; brother, Jack Birnbaum; and sisters, Lola Smith and Gloria Thompson. Leatrice is survived by her son, Dick (Susie) Parkinson of Banner Elk, NC; son-in-law, Robert Harding, Sr. of Neptune Beach, FL; grandchildren, Becky Parkinson, Rick (Shayna) Parkinson, Mike (Amy) Parkinson, Bobby (Rebecca) Harding, Holly (Chris) Faunce; and great grandchildren, Cody Parkinson, Clay Parkinson, and Alex Powell; along with numerous extended family members. A Graveside Celebration of Leatrice’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 15, 2022, at 2:00 pm at Beaches Memorial Park with Chaplain Jim Cox officiating. The arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services at Beaches Memorial Park, 1500 Main Street, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233. 904-249-1166.