Lydon Cook Parent of Phoenix entered eternal life quietly on the morning of Thursday, February 23, 2023.
Mr. Parent, Cookie to family, and Lee to his friends, was born in Washington DC, son of Dr. Ernest and Mrs. Louise Kilton Parent. He spent his childhood years in the capitol city, exploring the museums and historic buildings.
After attending the University of Virginia, Lee worked as the accountant for Woodfield Construction, before moving to Maine. There, he opened an antique shop in Bangor, and built a mountainside hermitage in Sullivan where he enjoyed many hours of solitude.
Lee moved to Phoenix in the 1970’s, where he opened a landscape company and quickly became a true son of the Southwest. His gracious home housed Native American art and artifacts, stained glass, Asian porcelain, and a grand piano reflecting his love of music. His front porch became a gathering spot for friends and neighbors to visit, enjoying lively, timely discussions. With a profound respect for nature, Lee loved the outdoors, tending his citrus trees and desert landscape. Blessed with a wonderful voice, he used it to great advantage in the choir at St. Theresa Parish where he and his brother Talbot for over a decade kept the pews in tiptop shape for the congregation. Always aware of the needs of others, Lee was active in the ministry of Saint Vincent De Paul for many years, and volunteered with the Shanti organization serving people with AIDS.
Those who knew and loved Lee remember his wicked wit, intense blue eyes, a searching intellect. He was a private gentleman, a benevolent giver, faithful brother and friend.
Lee is survived by his beloved younger brother Talbot, also of Phoenix.
A visitation will be held at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix on Sunday, March 5, 2023 from 2-4 PM, and a Funeral Mass at St. Theresa Catholic Church, 5045 E. Thomas Road, Phoenix, Monday, March 6, 2023 at 10:00 AM, with interment immediately following at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 2033 N 48th Street, Phoenix. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Lee’s name to the St. Theresa Perpetual Fund. Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
Kathryn Lewis
I was blessed to kown Lee for sometime — always with a kind smile despite the early morning crack-of-dawn services .. Lee was supportive of my lector abilities offering comments and encouragement in those early days. One would never guess of his concerns and tribulations. I am sure he is at peace now and resting in God’s good graces.
k lewis