Bobby Parker

On May 30, 1928, Bobby Lee Parker was born to Napoleon and Annie Elizabeth Parker of Monroeville Alabama, a town that would become famous for the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” authored by resident Harper Lee. He was the 16th child born to this union which included Eugene, Julia, Allen, Thomas, Mary, Roosevelt, Annie, Alice, Napoleon, Grady, Wilbert, Stephen and Wade All have preceded Bobby in death except for Stephen Parker of Birmingham, including 2 that died at birth. Bobby attended Bethlehem Industrial Academy (BIA) and sang with the school choir from Elementary through High School. He grew up quickly assuming many of the household duties as his father fell ill and his older brothers went off to serve their country. Upon graduating from High School, Bobby relocated to Birmingham where he worked with the Birmingham Health Department. He met Mary Louise Mitchell, fell in love and made plans to marry however he was drafted into the army to serve during the Korean conflict. Bobby served in the Army until 1952 when he received an honorable discharge. Upon discharge from the army Bobby came back to Birmingham and started working with Consolidated Appliances and resumed his relationship with Mary. They were married and had 3 daughters Anita, Bonita and Kathy. After years of living in Birmingham, Bobby relocated his family to Los Angeles, California in 1962. Having an unceasing desire to take care of his family sufficiently, he eventually became employed by the City of Compton. He stayed with the city until the opportunity for advancement came with the City of Carson California. Bobby worked for the City of Carson until his retirement in 1990. After his retirement, Bobby and Mary relocated to Marietta Georgia. Bobby accepted Christ as his savior in California and served faithfully in many capacities in the Church of God and other Ministries in California and Georgia. He served as a faithful and committed Deacon, choir member, teacher, Sunday School Superintendent and usher. Bobby loved helping people and he would always say “if I can’t help you, I won’t hurt you.” He impacted many people from the youngest to the oldest with his words of wisdom and encouragement and with his many stories about times past. He loved singing and listening to music and sermons he had taped over the years. He loved to laugh and make others laugh. Since he never met a stranger and would talk to any and everyone, his family would always say “if we can’t find him he’s probably talking to somebody.” Deacon Bobby lived a long and prosperous life with his devoted wife Mary who will always cherish his memory along with his daughters Anita (Ed), Bonita (Darnell) and Kathy (Ivan). 9 Grandchildren: Ereyn, Ethan (Avis), Kevin, Ivan Jr., Di’Ara (Derrick), Kiana, Darnell II., DeOndre’, Isaiah and 21 great-grandchildren. He also leaves his beloved brother Stephen, Sister-in-law Cornelia Carey, God-children Calvin and Kim Waddy and family, and a host of many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and other relatives, friends and co-laborers in the Lord. Also, a special mention to all who called him Dad or Grandad. Bobby attributed his longevity and prosperity to the grace of God. He realized that he had been blessed and he did everything that he could while here to be a blessing. Remember: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path. Proverbs 3:5-6