Larry Franklin Parker

He was born in Richmond, Virginia on March 12, 1946 to the late Earl F. and Annie Earlene Parker. He graduated from Highland Springs High School in 1964 and went on to attend the University of Richmond. His plans for graduate school were delayed due to his being drafted by the Army and serving in Vietnam. Following his discharge in 1971, he finally entered graduate school at the University of North Carolina and earned his M.B.A.

While at Chapel Hill, Larry met his beloved wife, Barbara, and they were married on December 1, 1973. They settled in Virginia Beach where they resided for the duration of their marriage. He earned his CPA and worked as a government auditor for over 35 years and was an active member of Thalia Lynn Baptist Church for almost 50 years.

Larry spent his retirement years doing what he really loved and truly mattered to him: doting on his family and serving others. After being a devoted father to his two daughters, he eagerly awaited the arrival of each new grandchild and had an active presence in their lives. Being a faithful volunteer at church in the food pantry and in the toddler Sunday School class was a priority. Additionally, he seldom missed going to the gym or making long walks around the neighborhood in pursuit of reaching a new record of steps. He was also an avid UNC basketball fan and enjoyed traveling with his wife around the country and abroad.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 52 years, Barbara Thomas Parker, his two daughters, Catherine Neal (Greg) and Kristen Ashford (Peter); and six grandchildren who adored their Grandad, Caleb and Ashley Neal; and Laurel, Alexa, Lindsey, and Wesley Ashford.

The family would like to thank his wonderful caregivers and staff at Westminster Canterbury who all treated Larry with love, respect, and kindness during his long illness.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Friday, February 20, 2026, at Thalia Lynn Baptist Church with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the food pantry at Thalia Lynn Baptist Church.