Emma Parrett

Emma Parrett, 92, of Mason City, passed away Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the IOOF Home. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11 a.m., at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 North Pennsylvania, with Deacon Regan Banks officiating. Interment will be held in Memorial Park Cemetery. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service time on Thursday. Memorials may be directed to the family of Emma Parrett.

Emmerline (Emma) Parrett was born on September 18, 1932, in Mississippi, to parents George and Annabelle Dooley. Emma often recounted her early life working in the field with her father, until her mother got sick. At nine years old, Emma learned how to cook so she could provide for her family.

Emma was united in marriage to Henry Parrett, and the couple moved to Mason City in the 80s to be closer to family.

To her family and friends, Emma will be remembered for her quick wit, her feisty spirit, and her loving and kind personality. She cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She did not hesitate to help someone in need, and she loved to host holidays and family dinners. She was the best cook, especially her dressing, collard greens, and her homemade potato salad. Emma enjoyed playing cards with her family and friends. Above all else, Emma absolutely loved Bingo, and she would never miss a bingo night, and was known to be very competitive. Emma will be forever remembered by her family and friends, and she will be deeply missed.

Emma is survived by her children, Hezekiah Stitts, Jr. and Jimmie (Julie) Stitts; grandchildren, Allen (Michelle) Stitts, Okenco Stitts, Jimmie (Rhoady) Quinn, Tammy Quinn, Dalaina (Moses) Noni, Jimmie (Tiffany) Burgess, LaTeya (Cedric) Edward, Kaylee Michael, NaTosha Stitts, Leon (Kristin) Stitts, Jr., Teresa Stitts, April Wiegert, Jeremiah Freudenberg, Tani Willey, and Gabby Rodriguez; and several great and great-great grandchildren.

Emma was preceded in death by her husband, Henry; two sons, Charles Stitts and Leon Stitts; stepson, Henry (Parrett) Payne; granddaughter, Syrita Quinn; her parents, George and Annabelle Dooley; brother, John Dooley; and sister, Liz Johnson.