Barbara Gladys Parker

Barbara Gladys Parker, 73, peacefully transitioned from her earthly home to her eternal reward on December 3, 2025, at her home in Buford, Georgia after a long illness. Born on July 4, 1952, in Columbia, South Carolina, Barbara-affectionately known as "Pokey"-was one of seven children born to the late Henry and Bessye L. Fox-Smith. In the early 1950s, the family relocated to New Haven, Connecticut, where she attended local public schools including Richard C. Lee High School.

In 1997, Barbara made Atlanta, Georgia her home, where she lived until her passing. She was the devoted wife of the late Calvin Parker, and from their union came two daughters, Tiffany Parker and the late Erica Parker.

A lifelong caregiver, Barbara dedicated her career to serving seniors and children with compassion and unwavering commitment. She spent more than 30 years in New Haven providing nursing care in both facility settings and private homes. After moving to Atlanta, she continued her calling for over a decade, supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through her work with United Cerebral Palsy and Hi Hope Services. She remained devoted to caring for the elderly until her retirement.

Barbara's home was a place of joy, warmth, and constant laughter. She loved to entertain, and her door was always open. Weekends often found family and friends gathered around her table enjoying good food, lively conversation, and the comfort of her generous spirit. Creating moments of happiness for others was one of her greatest gifts.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Calvin; her daughter, Erica; and her sisters Jacquelyn Dantzler, Brenda Smith and Sharon Smith.

Cherishing her memory are her beloved daughter Tiffany Parker (fiancé Gordon Thompson) of Georgia; brothers Clayton Smith (Alteria) of Virginia and Kenneth Smith of Connecticut; sister Diane Smith of Georgia; cousins Theandra Yvonne Walker of South Carolina and Lautrisha Spell of Connecticut; nieces Andrea Taylor of Georgia, Tracey Conyers (David) of Georgia, and Kerra Ashe (Jervis) of South Carolina; and nephew Paul Smith of Georgia. Each of them poured love, laughter, and unwavering support into Aunt Pokey's life throughout the years.

As she journeys into her next life, we pray for God's grace, mercy, and peace to surround her. May our family continue to hold close the beautiful, loving, and joyful memories she leaves behind.

In keeping with Barbara's wishes, no funeral service will be held. A celebration of life will occur at a later date.