An extraordinary woman, Laura Jo Parella Weeks was a devoted mother, caring daughter, most awesome sister, favorite auntie to many, granny to one, loving daycare provider to hundreds, and friend to so many more … passed away Tuesday, January 5, 2010, surrounded by family, after a brave bout with cancer.

Originating from El Cerrito, Laura Jo Parella was born to parents Joanne and Frank Parella. Her young life was spent playing in the canyons of El Cerrito with her brothers and sisters; Lynne, Mick, Lisa, Mitch and Matt. The family moved to Pinole in 1964 where her youngest brother Marc, was born. Graduating from Pinole Valley High in 1971, Laura married in 1972 and started her new life with daughter Roni Sue. In 1974 Laura pursued her passion of taking care of children and opened a home daycare that lasted for 35 years. After nine years of loving so many children, she gave birth to her first son Kyle Frank in 1983. Dana Leslie was born in 1986 and Chad Michael was welcomed in 1988. In 1990 Laura became granny to her only granddaughter, Brytnii Lynne. Along with her own children Laura was an amazing aunt to Dustin and Derek Crenshaw; Vincent, Zachary and Madison Parella; Francesca and Dominic Parella and Gregory and Alexander Parella.

Laura was the ultimate soccer mom. She spent years on the board of directors for the West Contra Costa Youth Soccer League and received the City of Pinole volunteer of the year for her services to the league. Laura was a diehard 49er fan, loved her cabin in Lake Tahoe and her waterfront trailer in Lake Berryesa. She enjoyed all that life blessed upon her and was a blessing to those around her.

Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Laura’s life on Saturday, January 16, at 1:00 p.m. at Hilltop Community Church, ]\
‘

Contributions in her memory may be made to St. Judes Children’s Hospital.