February 13, 2024, 73, Snow Hill —

April 3, 1950 – February 13, 2024

Richard David “Dick” Parker passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center. He was born in Denver County, Colorado on April 3, 1950, to the late Richard Donell Parker and Charlene Artis Gilbert. In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda Alane Whaley Parker; daughter, Sandra P. Brunson; and grandchildren, Orayah Brunson and Ayden Brunson.

Dick proudly served his country in the United States Navy and believed wholeheartedly in “Not self but country.” Though the Navy held Dick’s loyalty and service, the sky held his heart. He loved building his planes and flying them. After his discharge from the Navy, Dick went on to own his own business, Parker Equipment Company, specializing in forklift maintenance and repair.

Always as his first priority, Dick deeply loved and provided for his family. Wanda was his soulmate and bride of 48 years. His children were his pride, and his grandchildren were his joy. They will long remember special times spent listening to Dick’s stories and helping build his model planes.

A service of love and remembrance will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at Rouse Funeral Home, with committal following at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Goldsboro. The family will receive friends in the hour before the service.

Dick is survived by his children, Jennifer Lynn Jarman and David Keith Parker; granddaughters, Dulicia Parker, Shanna Parker-Lopez, Danelle Parker, and Ava Parker; and great-grandsons, Christian Cale, Alijah Parker, and Ryder Williams.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange, NC 28551.