Alyse Noelle Gray Parker

April 16, 1991 - April 28, 2024

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Mt. Zion of Oakwood Village

One Mt. Zion Circle

Oakwood Village, Ohio 44146

Friday 5/10, 10:30 am

Wake to begin at 10:00 am

Dr. Alyse Noelle Gray Parker passed away on the morning of Sunday, April 28, 2024, at the age of 33.

Alyse was born on April 16, 1991, in Cleveland, Ohio to Marcellus Gray Jr. and Lori Shy. She grew up in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, and Twinsburg, Ohio before traveling to Columbus, Ohio to obtain her Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology, Master’s of Arts in Psychology, and Ed.S. in School Psychology from The Ohio State University. Alyse’s ambition and passion for helping others continued as she obtained her Ph.D in Education Leadership and Policy from the University of Texas San Antonio.

During her junior year at Ohio State, Alyse found the love of her life, Benjamin Parker. The two married in July of 2017, and grew a beautiful life together across several states, eventually landing in Washington D.C. It was there where Alyse most recently found herself as an Associate Director of Federal Relations for the University of Iowa.

Alyse was a shining light to those whom she met; full of life, joy, and kindness to all. She had a sense of adventure, exploring new places, restaurants, and culture. When not working, Alyse loved taking walks with Ben and their beloved dog, Jax, in the neighborhoods of DC. She was a loving wife, daughter, sister, friend, and many things to so many people, always making time for others.

Before her passing, Alyse was surrounded by love at the baby shower for their daughter, Olivia Ada Parker. Alyse is now resting in the heavens with her daughters Malia and Olivia.

Along with her daughters, Alyse is joining her grandmother Jimmie Gray, her grandfathers Marcellus Gray Sr. and Don Pittmon Sr., her uncles Tyrone Pittmon and Willie Gates, and her aunts Carla Gray, and Marcia Gray.

Alyse is survived by her husband Benjamin Parker, her father Marcellus Gray Jr., her mother Lori Shy (Phil), her brother Justin Dove (Christina), her sisters Alyson Gray and Alana Gray, her uncles Don Pittmon Jr. (Nikki) and Gary Gray (Brenda), her aunts Loretta Lockhart (Lamont) and Rhonda Gray, her parents-in-law Tim and Jacquelyn Parker, her brother-in-law Nicholas (Kimberly), her sister-in-law Elizabeth, her nieces and nephew Mya, Aaliyah, Naomi, Juliette, and Aiden and a host of cousins and countless other loved ones.

Calhoun Funeral Home & Cremation Service

Diane Williams

Nanette Sherwood

Doris Riley

Will Washington, III

Tosca Jordan

Janice Thompson

Kimberly van der Heijden

DUANE RAWLS

Katie E. Abbott

Tiesha Walker

Regina Goggans-Jeffries

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Mt. Zion of Oakwood Village

One Mt. Zion Circle

Oakwood Village, Ohio 44146

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Friday 5/10, 10:30 am

Wake to begin at 10:00 am

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Dr. Alyse Noelle Gray Parker passed away on the morning of Sunday, April 28, 2024, at the age of 33. Alyse was born on April 16, 1991, in Cleveland, Ohio to Marcellus Gray Jr. and Lori Shy. She grew up in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, and Twinsburg, Ohio before traveling to Columbus, Ohio to obtain herContinue Reading

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Lifting up the family in prayer and condolences. Loosing a child is the greatest loss that happens in some families lives. I’m keeping you all in prayer, knowing that our God will help you through the loss as he has helped me in the loss of my son. ❤️🙏🏾Diane Williams

I am so deeply sorry for your loss! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Dear Marc and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Your heartbreak is my heartbreak. I wish you peace during this difficult time.

Lori, I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying for you and your family! Deborah A. Stewart

Alyse, your warmth and kind smile will be missed. It was such a pleasure to watch you blossom into such an amazing woman. Praying for your family and I pray you are resting peacefully with your daughters <3

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Lori, Marc and family I was sorry to hear about your daughter's passing. My heart is full. The family is in my thoughts and prayers. In time Father God will heal your pain. I love you guys.

To the Gray and Parker family, I would like to extend my deepest condolences for the loss of your 2 beautiful girls. Not only was Alyse beautiful, she was brilliant, driven and that which I admired the most about her was her passion for social justice through education. So not only is this a profound loss for her loving family and friends, it’s the loss of an advocate and egalitarian for the children of our country. Your heartbreak is my heartbreak and I wish you all peace as you acknowledge the amazing life that Alyse had because of all that loved her so dearly.

Alyse was an absolute joy to be around. I am so fortunate that we were in the same Ph.D. cohort at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I will never forget seeing her in our classes with her beautiful smile for everyone she interacted with. I will always remember how she could easily crack me up with a simple look when we engaged in theoretical conversations and debriefed course content. Alyse really mattered to me and she will be missed.

My deepest condolences to Alyse’s family and loved ones at this unthinkable loss. Her intelligence, conviction, and joy inspired me and I will miss her. May her memory be a blessing.

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Will Washington, III lit a candle

My Deepest Condolence to the Gray and Parker family. May God give you strength and comfort during this difficult time. We will keep the family in prayer. The Jordan & Tucker family from Columbus Ohio

It was a joy to have Alyse in our program (for her EdS degree). What I will never forget about Alyse is her smile. When she smiled, her whole face lit up! My heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones. My thoughts are with you. May your cherished memories of Alyse carry you through the difficult times.

My deepest condolences to Alyse's husband Ben and to Alyse's family. She was such a lovely person who always seemed to brighten the room. The last time I talked to Alyse was at Justin's wedding. I just remember having a wonderful conversation about her time in the school psychology program, her current job, and her plans for the future. A beautiful spirit who has left us way too early. May Alyse rest in peace.

As a colleague and friend, Alyse was a source of support through her kind smile, gracious approach and affirming expression. I am grateful for insights, joy and light that she shared in my life. Deepest sympathy to her family. She will live on in the hearts of all fortunate enough to know her.

Sending my deepest condolences to the Gray and Parker families. Alyse was kind to everyone around her, and she impacted many of us who were blessed to know her. While there are no words I can offer to lessen the pain you’re going through, I hope you take solace in the fond memories shared by her friends and colleagues. May she rest peacefully in heaven with her daughters, Malia and Olivia.

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Janice Thompson lit a candle

Lori and Mark I am so sorry about the loss of your daughter and grandchild. My heart and prayers are with your family. Love, Kim (formerly Brooks)

I am thankful for the time we spent working together at Trellis. I will always remember her kindness, positive spirit, and beautiful smile. Heartfelt condolences to the family.

Ben, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Alyse was a magnetic person. Her kindness and humor shined through in every interaction I had with her. As a colleague, it was evident what a driven and bright professional she was. She will be missed immeasurably. My deepest condolences to all of Alyse's loved ones.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, DUANE RAWLS lit a candle

I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Alyse and Ben's families. I knew Alyse less than a year while I worked at U of Michigan in DC and she worked for Iowa. In that short time, she made such an impression upon me. Her kindness, knowledge, humor, and grace were always present and she was just such a joy to be around, whether in social situations like happy hours or at work conferences. Her dedication to education and improving opportunities for students was inspiring. The world is a dimmer place without Alyse and her children in it. I will cherish her memory always. Thank you for sharing Alyse with us - she made a positive impact on so many of our lives. - Amanda Beaumont

Dear Ben, Gray & Parker families, the moment I met Alyse at her Trinity interview I knew she was the one for the job! Honestly, her shining personality, humor, & skills stood out right away! Being at Trinity that first year on my own was lonely and tough. But the arrival of Alyse (& Lori) the following year brought me joy and happiness! If you are lucky enough, work colleagues truly become your close friends! Ryan & I are saddened she is gone, but we will see her again one day! And I promise to carry her spirit with me every day! Love & miss you Alyse! Sending very big hugs to you Ben. Love Katherine (K2) & Ryan Hewitt

I would like send my deepest condolences to Ben and to Alyse’s extended family. She shared so much with me in the last year and I’m so thankful she trusted me with her story.I never got the chance to tell her how much helping her actually helped me. I will always remember her.

It was an honor to know Alyse. She radiated light and warmth, and despite not knowing her well or for long, I am rattled by her loss. I will always remember her beautiful, musical voice. She was meant to be a mother, and I take comfort knowing she is resting peacefully with her beautiful girls. Sending love to you, Ben, and to her siblings, family, and friends.

Alyse meant more to me than she will ever know, she was beautiful inside and out and the world will miss her, she inspired me often and restored my own hope and faith and joy in motherhood. It was an honor to know her.

Ben - we are all thinking of you and your families during this difficult time. Sending my support and will be thinking of you all.

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Tiesha Walker lit a candle

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Regina Goggans-Jeffries lit a candle

We’re sending our sincerest condolences to the family.

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Randall lit a candle

Alyse was an incredible colleague to all of us at Trellis and the Trellis Foundation. We are so thankful for the time that she spent with us and for the opportunity to stay connected and engaged over the years. Our deepest sympathies are with Ben and the families during this time. Alyse had an amazing impact on so many throughout her time in Ohio, Texas, and DC and we were honored to have the privilege to work along side her.

May she rest n Peace.

Sending my deepest condolences to the Gray and Parker families. Alyse was a joy to work with and we will miss her kindness and passion.

Alyse, memories of our first conversation keep playing back in my head. When I was so nervous about my internship at the Lumina Foundation, you so graciously offered me advice and good wishes. The literal moment I met you in person I felt so welcomed and loved which was so special to me at a time because I was still trying to find my footing in a new city. One of the sweetest souls with the purest of hearts. I cherish our memories together. You will always be missed. Ben & family, I am sending you all of my love. <3 Aleya

Ben, I am so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful wife & daughter. May you feel God's love and comfort in knowing He has them in the palm of his hand and you will be reunited one day. You and your family are in my prayers!

Ben, I can’t express how sorry I am for your loss. Although I knew Alyse for a brief time when I photographed your maternity photos, Alyse was radiant, kind, and endearing. I will always remember that beautiful afternoon we shared together in the garden. I wish you peace and send prayers to you and the Gray and Parker families.

Alyse was a colleague I deeply admired, her leadership and thoughtfulness served as an outstanding model for many early-career professionals in the higher education federal relations community. She will be sorely missed, and my sincere condolences to her family and loved ones.

Ben, sending my deepest condolences and sympathies to you during this unthinkable time. I can tell Alyse was bright, lovely, and a sweet spirit who impacted the lives of many. Our team is here for you and will support you in any way possible. Praying for peace, comfort, and strength over you and your family.

Ben - My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Please know that your Deloitte family is here wrapping our arms around you with prayers and love. Elizabeth Kimberl

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Ben, there are simply no words of sympathy that I can say that help ease your pain and loss. Maybe knowing that there are so many people who are thinking of you during this time will bring a little comfort. We are all here for you and will support you any way we can. Sending peace, love and prayers. - Sandra Franklin

I am deeply sorry to hear about the passing of your loved ones. May our prayers help comfort you and hasten the journey of his/her soul.

My deepest sympathies to you Ben. I am so sorry to hear for your loss. Sending you positive thoughts and lots of prayers. Please take care.

To Ben and the Gray and Parker families, I am so sorry to hear about your losses. I worked with Alyse at IHEP. I was always impressed by her deep passion for higher education and truly wanting to make a difference. Alyse was also just such a beautiful soul - she was one of the kindest, most compassionate people I have ever met. She touched a lot of lives with this kindness and compassion, including mine. She will be missed.

Ben, I am so sorry for your loss. May God give you strength during this difficult time. My prayers are with you and your family.

Ben, I am really sorry for your loss and my deepest condolences to you and your family.

Sending my deepest condolences to Ben, the Gray and Parker families, and all of Alyse’s loved ones. Alyse was such a wonderful person and I feel lucky to have known her. I will keep you all in my prayers.

My deepest condolences. Alyse was a beautiful person. I feel lucky to have known her.

Ben, my deepest condolences to you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Please let me know if you need anything.

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Colleen Bell lit a candle

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Chad Hawley lit a candle

We wish to send our deepest condolences to Alyse's family and friends. She was a wonderful colleague and we will miss her greatly, along with the rest of our Big Ten and higher education community. With sympathy, Paul, Melissa, and Colin

The Michigan State University Washington Office sends our sincerest condolences any sympathies. We cannot imagine what everyone who held her dear to their heart is going through. She is truly a shining star to us. Warm Regards, Sarah, Jacob and Janine

I had the privilege of working closely with Alyse when she was an intern in Lumina Foundation's DC office. She was one of our favorite interns ever - so smart, curious, hardworking, and kind. I got to watch her career unfold over the next several years and enjoyed having lunch every few months. I saw big things for her professionally and know how excited she was for parenthood. Her loss is devastating and she will be so missed. Many of us are keeping your family close in our thoughts and prayers.

You were the best of everything. Shine on,

I am devastated to hear about Alyse's passing. I worked closely with her at IHEP. She was an amazing colleague, kind spirit, and brought a lot of joy and passion to the work. I cannot begin to comprehend the pain that all of her loved ones are going through, and I wish you all peace and comfort during this time.

Ben , my thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. I am so very sorry for your losses. Your Deloitte family is here to support you with anything you need.

Gray and Parker Families - My deepest condolences are with you. Alyse was such a joy to get to know through our work together. Her warmth and kindness were a gift. She will be greatly missed.

Dear Gray & Parker families: My thoughts and prayers are with you during this incredibly difficult time. My heart aches for you and all those who love and call Alyse a friend. I loved getting to know her in DC and spending time together in the education policy & government affairs communities we shared. With every interaction, her warm personality and smile radiated—Alyse was so easy to love. Wishing you peace and comfort as you remember Alyse and Olivia.

To the Parker family - our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you. We know the love your family feels for Alyse and Olivia and hope you can find strength and comfort from the support of your family and friends. Please know you’re not alone and we will continue to keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.

The entire team at IHEP sends our deepest condolences to Alyse's family and loved ones. The field of higher education is better because of Alyse's contributions, and the world is a better place because of her far-too-short time here. She brought not only incredible intelligence and expertise to the IHEP team, but also a kind heart, friendly smile, and so much joy. To say it was a pleasure to count her as a teammate is an understatement. We are grieving her loss and wishing you solace as you do the same.

I had the privilege of working with Alyse during her time at IHEP. While our paths only crossed briefly, her talent, kindness, and optimism have stayed with me always. Sending love and strength to her family and friends.

My deepest sympathies. Prayers to your family

International Programs at the University of Iowa extends its deepest condolences to Alyse and her family. Alyse lives in our hearts as a wonderful friend and colleague. Her life and memory are a blessing to us all.

To the Parker family, Lori, Loretta, Tina and Donnie my deepest condolences. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you and keep you close in your time of sadness and loss.

My deepest condolences to Parker and Gray families. Alyse was a kind, gracious friend with an incredible spirit.

Sending my deep condolences to the Gray and Parker families. The loss of Alyse and Olivia is unthinkable and I wish you all peace during this heavy time.

My sincere condolences to the family 🤍

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Tracy Williams lit a candle

I will miss my kind, smart, and ever-smiling friend and will treasure that our last conversation was such a joyful one about Olivia's pending arrival. Alyse deserved only good things in this world and her loss has broken the collective heart of our community.

My condolences for the terrible and tragic loss of Alyse and Olivia.

My heart goes out to you for the loss of Alyse and Olivia. I know how much they meant to the Gray/Parker families. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

May God speed her into his loving arms to rest in peace and the Angels in Heaven give thanks for the love she shared here on earth. Amen.

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Stan Skocki lit a candle

Alyse, I’ll always remember your infectious smile and welcoming manner. I’m so happy that I met you and we became friends, though it was way too short. You will be missed beyond words. Please watch over all of us.

To Alyse & Alyson, the warmth in my heart still remains from witnessing your sisterhood during our time at OSU. Gentle & understanding strength so admirable and with so much laughter. Thinking of you Always, Kelsey Carter

In memory of Alyse, who will be so dearly missed and forever remain in our hearts

A continuous source of joy for so many. Thank you Alyse for bringing so much happiness to the world and for the tremendous impact that you had on it. Condolences to the Gray and Parker families.

In loving memory of the beloved Olivia Ada Parker.

In loving memory of the beloved Alyse Gray Parker.

Alyse thank you for being so kind to me when I needed it the most and making me look forward to earn my PhD in San Antonio. You made the transition so much better ❤️ my deep condolences to the Gray & Parker family.

In memory of Alyse Noelle Gray Parker, Melissa Shivers lit a candle

Alyse, Your heart was gold. Such a good friend. I will miss you so. Praying over you and praying over your family. I’m so deeply sorry.

I can't begin to fathom the depth of your sorrow during this heartbreaking time. My thoughts are with you as you navigate this unimaginable loss of both your beloved wife and precious child. Please know that you are not alone, and I am here for you in any way you may need. May their memories be a source of comfort and peace in the days ahead. My heartfelt condolences Ben!

Alyse was such a sweet soul and had such a wonderful spirit. Condolences to the family during this time.

I’m so sorry for your loss❤️🙏🏾

Lord we do not know your reasons why. This one is so very hard. Alyse and Alexandra have been friends since high school. I traveled to Columbus with Alex to take her and Ben’s engagement photos. She was and is such a beautiful spirit. May God provide some comfort in this dark time. Susan Johnson.

Some people have such light and presence that make you feel warm when you are around them. Alyse has always been one of those people for me. Her laugh, her smile, the conversations we had while she was at Trinity. I felt fortunate to still have contact after she moved to DC. She was such a beautiful soul and she will be greatly missed. I pray that the family be comforted by all the love and memories shared and knowing that each of us who encountered her felt her engaging spirit. I am so very, very, very sorry.

I am so sorry and saddened by the passing of Alyse. I was fortunate to know her with my work at the University of Iowa Office of Student Financial Aid. She was an amazing individual who was always so kind, understanding, and had compassion for college students and their needs. Such a beautiful person who I will dearly missed. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Brenda

To Ben and the family of Alyse. I am deeply saddened to hear that Alyse has transitioned from this life to the next. As a retired Vice President for Academic Affairs, I knew her very well and will treasure the time my husband and I spent with her and Ben. Knowing that there are no words that can fully comfort you, please know that our prayers are with you for the peace that only God can give and that passes all human understanding. .

You were one of the most incredible friends I ever had the privilege of sharing this life with. We will forever love and miss you. May you rest in peace <3

Dear Parker Family, On behalf of the entire 3M team, please accept our deepest condolences on the passing of Alyse. We were very saddened to learn of this tremendous loss and during this incredibly difficult time, we want you to know that our thoughts are with your family. With heartfelt condolences, Charles Clendenen

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.