Richard Lee Parker

Richard Lee Parker, a steadfast servant of God, a loving husband, father, and friend, was called to his eternal home on October 2, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on April 13, 1945, in Healdton, Oklahoma, Richard's journey on earth began with the promise of a life filled with love, service, and faith. He departed this world in Oklahoma City, leaving a legacy of wisdom and devotion that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Richard attended Healdton Elementary School and graduated from Wilson High School where he played trumpet in the High School Band. He attended University of Central Oklahoma and graduated from University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work.

Richard's life was one of dedication and commitment, not only to his family but also to his country and community. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Truckee, earning the National Defense Service Medal, and continued his service in the Army National Guard. His passion for helping others led him to a career in social work, where he spent 27 years with the Department of Social Services, protecting the most vulnerable as an Investigator in the Adult Protective Services Division for Adult and Elder Abuse and Neglect. Even after retirement, Richard's desire to serve others remained undiminished, as he worked diligently as the Admissions Director at Broadway Living Center for over 15 years.

A man of deep faith, Richard was a pillar in his Christian community. He and his beloved wife, Vickie E. Parker, with whom he shared 26 years of marriage, were united in holy matrimony at Crossroads Cathedral Church in Oklahoma City on December 17, 1999. They later attended CrossPointe Church in Norman, where Richard's presence was a source of strength and inspiration. Despite the challenges of Parkinson's and Dementia in his later years, Richard's spirit remained unbroken, and he continued to uplift others through his involvement in the Anointed Acts Ministry II Prayerline, where he was affectionately known as Elder Parker.

Richard was a faithful husband who adored his beloved Vickie. They spent time together going for rides, napping and visiting their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. It brought Richard joy to be involved and keep up with what was happening in the lives of his loved ones.

Richard's love for his family was immeasurable. He is survived by his devoted wife, Vickie; his children, Kari Lee Haynes (Bryan), Kelly King (Ronald), Shelly Test (Robert), Yakini Flanagan, and Daniel Kines (Annie); his siblings, Robert Parker (Bonnie), Carol Ann O'Neal White (Danny), LeAnn Hodges, and Mary Lynn Parker; his 23 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss his guidance and gentle spirit.

A lifelong learner and avid reader, Richard's interests spanned from history to football, always seeking knowledge and understanding. He loved being outdoors, going on hikes and enjoying God's creation. When his health made it difficult for Richard to get out, he kept in touch with his family with phone calls and especially enjoyed reminiscing with his brother and sister about old times. He was known for his wise counsel, often sharing the well-known words from Deuteronomy: 30:15 & 19: "The Lord has set before you life or death, blessing or curse. Oh, that you would choose life; that you and your children might live. Choose to love the Lord your God and to obey Him, for He is your life and the length of your days." This scripture guided Richard's life and served as a testament to his faith-filled existence.

Richard's life was a testament to the virtues of love, wisdom, and faith. He was a man who not only read the Bible but lived it, praying fervently for his family and friends, and always ready to lend an ear or a helping hand. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched, and his memory will be a beacon of hope and love for generations to come.

As we bid farewell to Richard Lee Parker, we do so with the comfort of knowing that he is now rejoicing with his late parents, Albert Parker and Jessie Mae Price Parker, and his cousins, Ronnie and Don Parker, in the glory of Heaven. His life was a journey of devotion, service, and unwavering faith, and he will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know him.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Parkinson's Foundation at www.parkinson.org or the Integris Health Hospice House at www.integrishealth.org.