Monica Terry (Parks) Spinner (84) of Effingham

Monica Terry (Parks) Spinner, 84, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2024 at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon, IL.

Per Monica’s wishes, there will be no services held at this time. Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham, IL is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.

Monica was born on July 11, 1940 in Maryville, MO to Jack and Irene (Shay) Parks. She attended high school in Mount Ayr, IA and graduated in the Class of 1958. At Northwest Missouri State University, Monica earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Education Administration from Eastern Illinois University. Monica attended 8 state colleges and universities in several states. Monica spent most of her teaching career in special education. She taught in Denver, Minneapolis, Fargo, and Kansas City. Her last twenty-five years were in the Illinois Department of Corrections, with the last years as a supervisor of the special education program. Monica was named Illinois Adult Educator of the Year. Monica belonged to New Hope Church and attended Oasis classes. She was known as the dessert lady for the senior group. She also volunteered at the Effingham Cross. Monica was an Elks member and served on the Children’s Care Committee. Monica’s greatest love was her daughter Teri Miller and her two grandsons Kendrick and Jordan Miller.

Monica is survived by her daughter, Teri Miller; grandsons, Kendrick Miller and Jordan Miller; special sister-in-law, Cecilia Parks; nieces, Jennifer (Marty) Pratt and Summer Parks; nephews, Kent (Lori) Reynolds, Mike (Amanda) Reynolds; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and a few special cousins that were dear to her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Irene Parks; brothers, Dennis Parks and Gary Parks; sister, Barrie Reynolds; brother-in-law, Brady Reynolds; and nephews, Joseph and James “Deg” Reynolds.