Simone Blanche Léontine Parks

Simone Blanche Léontine née Renaudin, Robertson, Parks

Simone was born in Migennes, France on February 16, 1925 to René Renaudin and Louise Emilienne (Couffet) Renaudin. She was a devout Catholic her entire life.  She left her earthly home for her heavenly home on Tuesday, May 21, at the age of 99, while residing at Westbury Senior Living.

Simone attended elementary and secondary school in Joigny, France and her further education was at the University of Dijon from 1944-1945.  She also received career training at Loreal in Paris, France.

On February 17, 1947 she married Jay Reese Robertson (deceased), an American paratrooper.  He had participated in the liberation of France from Germany during WWII where he and Simone met.  She left France with Jay to make a home in the United States.  Simone and Jay had five children, Patrick Jay Robertson (Kathy), Patricia E. Foley (Bill), Christian L. Robertson (Deborah),Steven Max Robertson, and Christine Mustion, Kind (Ryan).  She is survived by her children, seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

She later married Robert Hill Parks (deceased) on December 23, 1971.  She taught French at the University of Missouri from August 1, 1962, until retiring on September 1, 1987.  Toward the end of her career, she was affectionately known as Madame Parks.  Simone loved music, opera, ballet and travel.  She ushered for many events at Jesse Hall.  

Simone was an extremely loving and dedicated mother, grandmommy and grandmia to her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.  We will miss her charm, her smile, her exquisite French cooking and that beautiful French accent!