BARGERSVILLE — Hope Parker, 13, who inspired a community though her courage and her heart, died surrounded by her family Tuesday.
Parker is the namesake for The Hope Gallery, a gift shop and non-profit organization in Bargersville employing adults with special needs.
It helps teach them skills for the work force and gives them a place to belong.
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Parker was born with a heart defect and had 17 surgeries, but it didn't stop her from bringing joy to those around her.
"Hope was full of life, love and laughter," her obituary read. "She loved people and never knew a stranger (just ask anyone at Kroger). Her smile, sense of humor, strong will and infectious laugh were her trademarks. She gave hope to others by living her life with joy despite her own sufferings. She knows Jesus and prayed for everyone. She loved to swim, fly on airplanes, dance, jump on her trampoline, care for her babies and have sleepovers. Pilots, garbage men and tow truck drivers were her heroes. She truly made everyone around her better because of her love for them. The love of Jesus shined through her. She sparkled."
