Mary Kathleen Parker

Mary Kathleen Parker, 56, of Wagener, SC, passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026. Born in Towson, MD, on March 6, 1969, she was a daughter of Patricia Cooper Snyder and the late Albert Leroy Snyder. A lifelong animal lover, she was especially known for her passion for saving animals and giving them a second chance. Her farm was not just a place; it was a sanctuary, filled with the horses, dogs, and animals she cherished and cared for with a tender heart. An avid equestrian and consummate horsewoman, she took great pride in her horses and the life she built around them, spending countless hours in the barn and saddle doing what she loved most.

Her greatest achievements were her children, who were the center of her world. She poured her heart into raising them with strong values, kindness, and resilience, always putting family first. Deeply family-oriented, she took immense pride in her home, her farm, and the legacy of love she created for generations to come.

Authentic, compassionate, and genuine in every way, she had a rare gift for making others feel seen and cared for. Whether rescuing an animal, encouraging a friend, or simply listening, she lived her life with grace and purpose.

She leaves behind a family who will forever treasure her spirit, her strength, and her boundless love.

She is survived by her mother; her husband of 27 years, Stephen Parker; children, Katlyn Ann Parker and Elijah John Kimball Parker; siblings, Roy Snyder, Jr., Patrick Snyder, Joe Snyder, and Beth Snyder; as well as many extended family members. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Steve Snyder, Michael Snyder, and Christopher Snyder.

The Requiem Mass to celebrate the life of Mrs. Parker will be held at 10 A.M., on Monday, January 26th, at Old St. Mary Help of Christians Church on Park Ave, with Father Ghattas officiating. Interment will follow in the Calvary Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 3 to 5 P.M., on Sunday, January 25th, at Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Aiken Chapel, 211 Park Ave SW, Aiken, SC 29801.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mary Help of Christians Church, 203 Park Ave SE, Aiken, SC 29801, or to a charity of one's choice.

Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Aiken Chapel is serving the Parker family.