Wanda Ann Parker

Wanda Ann Parker’s love of life didn’t come to an end with her death. Wanda passed away on January 18, 2022, at the age of 78 at her home in Pistol Thicket, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones who will continue to honor her legacy by living their lives to the fullest.

Wanda Ann Finley Parker was born on March 8, 1943, under the union of Dixie Darren Finley and Myrtis Beatrice Parker (Olla, LA). Wanda was unbelievably proud of her daddy, and her Native American heritage. With her dad in the service she spent most of her childhood with her beloved grandparents, Grisham and Florence Finley. Wanda raised her younger brother and sister, Denver and Sue Finley. Besides her family, her greatest accomplishment was her career. Wanda worked and retired from the Caldwell Parish Sheriff’s Office. Her co-workers were family, and she loved her time there.

Wanda was greeted in Heaven by her parents, Dixie and Myrtis Finley, her twin girls, Deborah Ann & Donna Kay; her grandparents, Grisham and Florence Finley; her brother, Denver Finley; her Sheriff, Slim Hodges; along with a host of other family and friends.

The simplest pleasures in life brought great joy to Wanda. She loved to take care of those she loved. No one ever left her house without discussing politics and having a cup of coffee. She loved being happy, dancing, and music. She was one of a kind. She will be missed by all who knew her. Wanda is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Jim "Sonny Boy" Parker; a son, Clay (Barb); a daughter, Dana; a sister, Sue; grandchildren: Lauren, Clayton (Abby), Colter (Sloan), Lenzy (Colton), Jaime (Kade), Jeanna, and Dalton; great-grandchildren: Nate, Cora Ann, Henry, John Ross, Amelia, Bowen, Luna, & Gus; her best friend, Susan Jones.; along with nieces, nephews, and friends.

Family and friends will join to celebrate the life of this wonderful woman on January 29, 2022. The wake will be from 12 PM - 2 PM at the chapel of Riser and Son Funeral Home, Columbia. The service will start at 2 PM and be officiated by Jack McKeithen. Interment will follow in the McGee - Mt. Rose Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Dr. James Clayton Parker III, Colter Parker, Colton Phillips, Kade George, Kade Owens, Bubba Miles, BJ Jones, and Hayden Finley. Honorary Pallbearers include Dick Meredith, Jason Coleman, Denny Finley, Jeffrey Finley Jr., Jeffrey Finley, Buster Finley, James Cook, Steve Dark, and Donny Richardson.