Rev. Chester Ray Parker

Rev. Chester R. Parker, 103, died peacefully Sunday, July 21, in Knoxville, TN., after a brief illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Avery and Viola Woods Parker; brothers, Clarence and Aldridge Parker; and his loving wife, Margaret Meals Parker. He is survived by his son, Marche R. "Woody" (Melinda) Parker and daughter, Rev. Rebekah Parker (James H.) Fetzer III. Grandchildren: Mindy Parker (Joe) Schmidt, Wesley (Trish) Parker, Travis (Carrie) Parker, Cara Cox (Matt) Jordan, John (Elaine) Cox, Cameron Parker Cox, Melody Cox, James W. (Misty) Fetzer and Annette Fetzer. Great grandchildren: Emma Wynne, Grant Wynne, Ashlee Parker, Dallas Parker, Jaxson Parker, Chloe Cox, Abbey Cox, Caleb Cox, Alexander Jordan, Nicholas Jordan, James W. Fetzer, Jr. and Rachel Fetzer.

Chester Ray Parker was born on St. Patrick's Day (March 17, 1921). He has always been a great sports fan, participated in high school sports but most recently, cheering for the Atlanta Braves and the Tennessee VOLS from the comfort of his recliner. Besides sports, he enjoyed time spent with family. Until recently, he would even get in the floor to play with toys and cars with the younger great grandchildren. He loved quiet times reading his Bible daily. He also enjoyed quiet moments outdoors watching the birds.

In September of 1941, Rev. Parker entered Union University, Jackson, TN., and was ordained to the ministry at First Baptist Church, Forrest City, Arkansas. He served in the following churches during his 40 years in the ministry: Beck Spur Baptist Church, Palestine, AR; First Baptist Church, McCroy, AR; National Avenue Baptist Church, Memphis, TN; Immanuel Baptist Church, Lebanon, TN; Unaka Avenue Baptist Church, Johnson City, TN; and, Calvary Baptist Church, Granite City, IL.

A better man would be hard to find. He was a continuous example of a positive-thinking Godly man, who most often was heard whistling.

Services will be held Friday, July 26, 2024, in the chapel at the Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens, 9090 Hwy. 100, Nashville, TN. Visitation will be 12:30-1:30, celebration of life service at 1:30 with burial to follow.

Officiants Rev. Tom Gholson and Rev. Rebekah Parker Fetzer. Pallbearers Wesley Parker, John Cox, Cameron Cox, Travis Parker, James W. Fetzer and Matt Jordan.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to Susannah's House, 923 Dameron Ave., Knoxville, TN 37921, a recovery center for mothers and their children that was close to Chester's heart. Thank you!