John Henderson Parker Sr.

Superintendent, Emeritus, John Henderson Parker, Sr. August 12, 1931 - December 2, 2024

We praise and thank God for the gift of Superintendent, Emeritus, John Henderson Parker, Sr. He was a hero, visionary, builder, theologian, Gospel preacher, and defender of the faith. His life was a testament to God's power and grace, with an enduring impact for generations.

Born in Village, Arkansas, Supt. Parker was the fifth child of Caldon and Fancy Parker. He was affectionately called "Jack" by family and friends. Raised in faith, he attended Damascus Baptist Church and committed his life to Christ at 18, receiving the infilling of the Holy Ghost while attending a COGIC church in Texas.

In Phoenix, AZ, Supt. Parker answered God's call to ministry, traveling with his brothers and Bishop Arthur Dosty to preach and sing the Gospel. Known for his dynamic preaching, he reached diverse audiences during a segregated era. In 1951, a divine vision led him to Utah, where he met his future wife, Lillie Mae Daniels. They married in 1954 and shared over 50 years of holy matrimony until Lillie's passing in 2004. Together, they raised four children, lovingly called their "Four Lovelies."

Supt. Parker pastored 28th and Wall COGIC in Ogden, Utah (1956-1971), growing it into Utah's largest COGIC congregation. Known for hospitality, he and his wife mentored young adults, fostering faith and connection. He also served as interim pastor at 2nd Baptist Church in Ogden and Community COGIC in Idaho Falls, Idaho. In 1974, Supt. Parker relocated to Sacramento, CA, founding and pastoring multiple churches, including New Jerusalem COGIC and Rising Star COGIC. He served as District Superintendent under several bishops, earning respect as a dedicated leader.

In 1991, Supt. Parker retired from Union Pacific Railroad after 40 years, devoting himself to full-time ministry and caregiving for Lillie. In later years, he continued ministering in Oklahoma under Bishops Broom and Norwood, pastoring Power HouseCOGIC in Watonga, OK.

Supt. Parker embodied faith, love, and dedication. As a husband, father, and pastor, he inspired those around him with his humility, strength, and compassion. His legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched and the churches and leaders he mentored.

He is survived by his wife of three years, Joan Parker; children Pastor John H. Parker, Jr. (Goldie), Sheila Dewey, Dr. Sha'ronWestbrooks (Craig), Pastor Dr. Jeffrey M. Parker; granddaughter Tanika Parker; stepchildren Bishop-Elect D.L. Edwards (Porche), Amundayo Edwards (Teresa), Damond Edwards (Teresa); a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and spiritual children; brother Bobby L. Parker (Ann); and sister Leta Springs.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Lillie Mae Parker; wife of 12 years, Rae Faye Parker; parents Caldon and Fancy Parker; siblings SJ, Emery, Little Boy, Zemmery, Willie Lee, Lenner, Caldon Jr., Lee Dell, and Mary Jean; daughters-in-law Princess and Cynthia Parker; son-in-law Ricky Dewey; and granddaughter Lillie Mack.

Supt. Parker's legacy as a father in faith and ministry continues to thrive through the churches, pastors, elders, ministers, and saints who were shaped by his life and service.

Tue Dec 17, 2024

10:00 AM Viewing

11:00 AM Service

Showers of Blessings COGIC

3636 48th Ave

Sacramento CA 95823