Irene M. Parham

Irene Margaret Parham was born on June 17, 1941, to Emma and Anton Ramelmeier in New York City, New York. Soon thereafter, the family moved to Grosse Pointe, Michigan, where she spent her early years. Irene and her family returned to Queens, New York in 1948. She graduated from Jamaica High School in 1959 and entered Michigan State University (MSU) the following fall.  There, she showed interest in art and history and brought her New York City style to East Lansing! While attending MSU, Irene met Roger Parrish, who she married in 1964. They had a son, Roger Dean Parrish, of whom Irene was extremely proud. Irene earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in 1965.

Following her divorce, Irene moved to Washington, D.C., where she started working for the Department of Social Services as a case worker.  Soon thereafter, Irene entered Catholic University School of Social Work, and she earned her Master of Social Work degree in 1971.  Upon graduation, Irene continued working for Social Services in a multitude of capacities with many accolades until retirement.

Irene married Stephan Parham in 1973, at which time she moved to Columbia, Maryland. Through their union, they had two sons, Blair Andrew Parham and Ryan Eugene Lee Parham. On October 25, 2022, while at her home in Brightview Senior Living, Irene peacefully transitioned to her eternal resting place. 

Irene was preceded in death by her husband, Stephen in 2021; her oldest son, Roger in 1983; her parents; and brother, Rolf.  Irene is survived by sons, Blair and Ryan (Amanda); three grandchildren, Roger, River, and Blaire; and multiple nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.