Richard Ira Parker

Born on June 28, 1945, in Birmingham, Alabama, Richard lived a life devoted to faith, service, and caring for others. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he developed a deep sense of duty, integrity, and compassion that remained with him throughout his life. After his military service, he dedicated many years to helping others as a respiratory therapist. His calm presence, skilled hands, and caring heart brought comfort to countless patients and families during their most difficult moments. Above all, Richard answered God’s call to ministry. As a Pastor, he faithfully shared the Gospel, offered hope to those in need, and shepherded his congregation with wisdom, humility, and love. His sermons, prayers, and encouragement touched many lives and reflected his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. Outside of his work and ministry, Richard found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was a woodcrafter who took pride in creating beautiful pieces with his hands, a lifelong reader whose love of learning never faded, and an avid collector of books. His library reflected his curiosity, faith, and appreciation for history and knowledge. Whether building something in his workshop or immersed in a good book, he found contentment in quiet moments of creativity and reflection.

Richard will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, loyal friend, and faithful servant of God. His life was marked by kindness, quiet strength, generosity, and an enduring commitment to serving both his country and his Lord.

Richard is survived by his wife, Faye Parker; his children, Scott Parker (Laura) and Sonja Durkee (Roger); grandsons, Charles Parker and Grant Parker; and many extended family members, friends, and members of the church family who were blessed by his life and ministry. While he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in the promise of eternal life and rejoices knowing he has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Visitation for Richard will be held at Sunset Funeral Home on Friday, July 3, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 am. Burial will follow in Sunset Memorial Park with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice in honor of his lifelong commitment to faith, service, and caring for others.