David Ray Parker, Sr

David Ray Parker, Sr., 72, beloved husband of Rhonda Lovely Parker, and a resident of Columbia, Tennessee, passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

A funeral service will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Heritage Funeral Home with Bro. Scott Senior and Bro. Jerry Richardson officiating. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Maury Memorial Gardens. A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM and again on Sunday from 12:00 – 2:00 PM at the funeral home.

Born on September 20, 1953, in Maury County, David was the son of the late James W. Parker and the late Christine Owens Parker. He married the love of his life, Rhonda Lovely, on January 11, 1971. David was employed with Union Carbide for more than thirty years before his retirement. As a jack of all trades, he also sold wood and sno-cones and built cabinets all so his wife could be a stay at home mother for their children.

Known affectionately as “PawPaw”, David was a devoted man of God—an encourager, prayer warrior, and longtime member of The Pentecostals of Columbia. He was an outdoorsman through and through, happiest when tending to his yard, riding motorcycles, or enjoying off-road four-wheeling. He and Rhonda shared a deep love of traveling together. David also had a wonderful sense of humor and was always ready with a joke, bringing joy and laughter to those around him. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Tina Malugin of Columbia, David Ray (Ayesha) Parker, Jr. of Culleoka, Connie Parker of Columbia, Micah (Billy) Prentice of Columbia, brother, Bobby Parker of Columbia, grandchildren, Amber (Jesse) Spencer, Chasity (Caleb) Avery, Haley Parker, Elizabeth (Taylor) Page, Benjamin (Samantha) Parker, Jacob (Hailee) Malugin, Julianna Prentice, Shelby Prentice, great grandchildren, Abrielle Avery, Adaline Avery, Stella Spencer, Harrison Avery, Emma Malugin, and Scarlett Spencer, and his very special canine companion, Peanut.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son in law, Kenny Malugin, sister in law, Judy Parker, and beloved dog, Chrome.

Those serving as pallbearers will be Chandler Michael, Chance Michael, McKinley Pugh, Colton Pugh, Brayden Pugh, Benajmin Parker, and Shelby Prentice. Honorary pallbearers will include the men of The Pentecostals of Columbia and his coworkers at Union Carbide.

A special thank you is extended to his loving daughter, Connie, and granddaughter, Haley, for devoting their time and love to take care of our Daddy. The family also wishes to thank Gentiva Hospice for their care and compassion during this difficult time.