Community members gather to honor Geraldine Parker with a street co-naming ceremony in Staten Island.
Staten Island honored community leader Geraldine Parker during a street co-naming ceremony on March 5, 2025. Despite challenging weather, family, friends, and local officials gathered at the intersection of Gordon and Warren Streets in Stapleton to pay tribute to Parker’s dedication to uplifting her neighborhood. Parker left a lasting legacy through her advocacy and devotion to community service, making significant contributions that improved the lives of many residents.
Staten Island was buzzing with excitement on March 5, 2025, as the community gathered to celebrate the remarkable life of Geraldine Parker, a cherished community leader. The street co-naming ceremony took place at the lively intersection of Gordon and Warren Streets in Stapleton, marking a heartfelt tribute to Parker, who dedicated her life to uplifting her neighborhood.
This touching event was organized by Councilmember Kamillah Hanks, who proudly acknowledged Parker’s lasting impact on the community despite the less-than-ideal weather. Winds howled and a chilly drizzle fell as family, friends, local officials, and community members braved the elements to pay their respects to a woman who had given so much to her community.
Geraldine Parker passed away on September 16, 2024, at the age of 64, leaving behind a legacy that will be celebrated for generations to come. Parker lived in the New York City Housing Authority complex, Stapleton Houses, for over 46 years and dedicated herself to improving the lives of her neighbors. Over the years, she lovingly raised six children while also becoming a fierce advocate for her community.
Parker was not just a resident; she was the heartbeat of Stapleton Houses. For over two decades, she served as the president of the Stapleton Houses Tenants Association, working tirelessly to promote safety, unity, and well-being among residents. Her commitment to community relations was evident through the various initiatives she launched for youth safety and engagement. She was known for ensuring the local community center remained a welcoming hub for activities, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic where she organized a pop-up food pantry to assist families in need.
Geraldine also had a green thumb! She established a community garden at Stapleton Houses, providing residents with the opportunity to grow their own food. This initiative not only promoted sustainability but also fostered a sense of togetherness among neighbors. Parker was honored in 2012 as a “Woman in History” by the former City Council President Debi Rose for her tireless contributions to her community.
“Stapleton Day,” an event she organized, was a celebration of local unity through food and music, creating cherished memories for families in the area. Parker’s passion for education shone through as she collaborated with literacy programs to provide essential resources for the younger generation, ensuring they had the tools they needed to succeed.
Geraldine was married to Philip Parker in 1978 and had six biological children: Josiah, Acklia, Charlene, Joshua, Anita, and Xavier, along with two nephews, Thailee and Aaron, whom she also raised. A devoted member of Saint Paul’s Apostolic Faith Church, she committed herself to her faith, participated in the choir, and taught Sunday school, instilling values in her family and community alike.
Interestingly, her journey as Tenants Association President began somewhat unknowingly in 2002. Initially hesitant to take on the role, she quickly found a passionate commitment that transformed her community. Throughout her impressive tenure, she advocated for improved safety measures, successfully pushed for better lighting, and launched various youth programs that made a real difference.
Parker’s influence stretched even further as she was the first NYCHA president appointed to the Community Board and later served as chair of the Staten Island Council of Presidents for an impressive nine years. Though she had plans to retire in 2024, her dedication to her community remained unwavering, as she organized her last Family Day event just a month before her passing.
On that rainy day in Staten Island, the community came together to remember Geraldine Parker, a woman whose spirit touched so many lives. The street now bearing her name stands as a lasting tribute to a truly remarkable woman who will never be forgotten.
News Summary In her State of the State Address, Governor Kathy Hochul proposed a $1…
News Summary Andrew Cuomo's campaign for mayor of New York City encounters a major obstacle…
News Summary New York City is making significant progress toward universal broadband access through the…
News Summary New York Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled the ConnectALL Deployment Program, investing $1…
News Summary In an unprecedented move, five small businesses have filed a lawsuit against President…
News Summary In the first quarter of 2025, Manhattan's retail market is witnessing a significant…