Barbara Ann Parker

Reflections of Life Mrs. Barbara Ann Brown Parker was born March 21, 1936 in Waverly, Virginia, the sixth of seven children of the late John and Ethel Brown. God called her home on June 15, 2015 at the Laurels of University Park nursing care facility in Richmond after an extended illness. Left to cherish a bounty of loving memories are her devoted husband of 53 years, James E. Parker; sister, Gwen Davis (Alfred) of Windsor; nephews, Oliver Coleman (Wanda) and Larry Coleman (Silas) of Richmond; niece, Geraldine Coleman of Philadelphia, PA; brother-in-law, Joseph Parker Jr. of Waverly; sister-in-law, Patricia P. Hill of Los Angeles, CA and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins and loving friends. Barbara completed her initial education at the Sussex County Training School, developing a love of learning and sharing. She went on to attend Virginia State University in Petersburg where she received her B.A. degree in Education in 1958. Continuing on in this field of study, she received a M.A. from Teachers College, Columbia University in New York. During her career as an educator Barbara worked as a Classroom Teacher, Consultant Teacher, Curriculum Specialist, and Assistant Principal in the Richmond Public School System. She retired in 1991 after 33 years of outstanding service. Accepting Christ at an early age, Barbara was baptized at First Baptist Church in Waverly, continuing her membership there for many years, then later attending Sharon Baptist Church, and finally as a dedicated member of Providence Park Baptist Church. During her years at this church, Barbara faithfully served in many ministries, sang in the choir, taught Sunday School, and directed the Vacation Bible School Program. She used her gifts as God instructed her and encouraged others to trust Him at all times, in all things. Barbara’s work in the kingdom spoke for her and she was ordained as a Deacon on September 17, 2006. Barbara and James were married on Christmas Eve in 1962 and continued a special anniversary tradition of opening their gifts to each other along with those from family and friends by their decorated tree that night. The couple enjoyed travel and since James was a professional long distance truck driver, he’d often take Barbara on road trips during the summer months to see the country. As a true measure of their love and dedication to family, Barbara and James lovingly accepted the children of one of her late sisters into their home and raised them as their own. She indeed was the rock of the family, loving everyone unconditionally and doing all that she could for anyone she came in contact with. Passionate and active in various organizations that supported the needs of others, Barbara was a member of Delva Jr. Women, Young Women’s Christian League, United Way, Sisters United Richmond, Virginia One Church One Child, Living the Dream, and the National Association of Elementary School Principals. She always wanted to do what was best for children and adults alike, in order to better their immediate situation and anchor them for future opportunities. Her faith in God, her positive attitude and tireless work ethic have been a blessing to the Richmond Community for years, her legacy etched in the lives of those she touched.

Tributes

Barbara Ann Parker

March 21, 1936 - June 15, 2015