Ifeteo Janet V. Parker, also known as Ifeteo Parker Matthews, was born Janet Virginia Parker on September 13, 1946, to James Parker and Helen Parker (nee Matthews). She was the youngest of four children. At her residence, on April 23, 2026, Ifeteo peacefully answered the summon of the ancestors to enter eternity.

People discerned Ifeteo's superior intellect and wisdom at an early age. As a 1964 graduate of Allegheny High School, she immediately went to the University of Pittsburgh and attained her bachelor’s degree in education. While at the University she became deeply involved in the Black Power movement.

A lifelong educator, Ifeteo spent most of her adult life working for the Youngstown Public Schools. Her passion for literature and commitment to her scholars inspired countless individuals. She left an indelible mark on the education landscape of our community. Ifeteo’s ability to connect with her students, paired with her unwavering dedication, made her a beloved figure among both peers and students alike. Through the years she was also employed by The Marcus Garvey School and the Youngstown Area Urban League.

Outside the classroom, Ifeteo shared her passion for education, knowledge and enlightenment in community settings. Ifeteo was a frequent speaker on African American History and Black Culture engaging audiences with a deeper appreciation for the contributions of People of Color. She is recognized an expert on the Yoruba culture of Western Nigeria and was an instructor at Youngstown State University teaching “Exploring West Africa: An Inside View” in its former Black Studies Department.

Ifeteo didn’t just teach Black Culture, she was fully immersed and lived it unapologetically. She could always be found in a crown or gele and African inspired clothing. Ifeteo was wed to Larry Brown on February 11, 1967, and they had three children Ronda, Rochelle and Rasheid. Her children called her Iya which is the Yoruba word for mother.

Ifeteo also took pride in her community and as a resident of Youngstown’s South Side, worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for others. She played an instrumental part in creating the Peace Corner near Indianola and Princeton Avenues to encourage others to pursue the same.

Ifeteo legacy is entrusted to her son Rasheid (Monique) Brown, daughter Rochelle (Richard) Hall: grandchildren; Ceera Brown, Destinique Brown, Randall (Caylin) Hall, Mirandia Coger, Isis (Jamarr) Douglass, India Brown, Ryan Hall, Rasheid Brown II, Daysia Brown and Chase Brown and a score of great grandchildren, and other relatives.

Ifeteo was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Ronda (Brown) Moss; siblings, Richard Ernest Parker, Sr., Martha Williams, and Ronald Parker; and great grandsons Jayviaire and Jamarr Douglass.

Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of her remarkable journey and the profound impact she had on so many lives. A Memorial Service to honor Ifeteo's life and legacy will be held on Monday May 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM, at the Jaylex Event Center, 2110 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown. Ifeteo's grandson, Rev. Randall Hall of New Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church in Cleveland will officiate.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Ifeteo Janet V. Parker elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.