Reverend Doctor James Richard Parker

Obituary for Reverend Doctor James Richard Parker
Psalms 31:1 In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust…
Reverend Doctor James Richard Parker, a devoted servant of faith and community, was born on November 21, 1936, in Monroeville, Alabama, and departed this life on November 7, 2024. He was the beloved son of Susie Dorothy Connor and Tommy Parker and was raised by his stepfather, Ben Simmons. His formative years were spent in Pascagoula, Mississippi, where he moved at the age of five.

James attended Pascagoula Negro High School before graduating from Carver High School in 1958, where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball. He continued his education at Alcorn College, playing as a left and right fielder, and later took his passion for baseball to the semi-professional level with the Pascagoula Eagles for 15 years.

In 1959, James married Pinkie Lee Means, and together they welcomed three children: Zachary, Teresa, and Sharon. At just seven years old, James embraced his faith in Christ under Reverend Mays, maintaining a lifelong connection with Antioch Baptist Church under Dr. L. D. Chapman before embarking on his pastoral journey. He served as pastor at First Baptist of
Escatawpa for 12 years and then at New Zion Missionary Baptist Church for 38 years. 

His commitment to his community extended beyond the church. James was a part of the Pascagoula Negro High School Alumni Association, the Moss Point-Jackson County NAACP, and he served as Dean of Students at Lift Bible College. He was also involved with the Jackson County Ministerial Alliance, reinforcing his dedication to service and education.

In 2007, he married Reverend Dr. Ann Pickett, expanding his family to include four stepchildren: Peottra, Pamela, Patrice, and Phelan. James earned a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctor of Divinity from Lift Bible College, as well as a certificate in counseling, underscoring his lifelong pursuit of knowledge and
spiritual guidance.

James is predeceased by his parents, daughter Teresa Parker Robinson, and granddaughter Pinkie Robinson.

He leaves behind cherished memories with his wife of 17 years, Ann Pickett Parker, his children, Zachary (Courtney) Parker, Sharon Parker, and Juan Parker, and his stepchildren, Peottra (Shyryllya) Pickett, Phelan (EuKeisha) Pickett, Pamela (Timothy) DuBose, and Patrice (Tony) Thomas. His brother, Anthony "Chili" Simmons, along with an extended family of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, and friends, will continue to celebrate his enduring legacy of love and faith.

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