Richard Carlisle Parker

Richard Carlisle Parker, 89, aka RC, passed away on Thursday December 28, 2023 at his residence in Palatka, FL. RC was born December 5, 1934 in Gary, WV to the late Frankie J. Smith. He graduated from Gary High School, married, and joined the Air Force. He moved to Florida in 1955 and retired from Homestad Air Force base in 1993 as Chief Master Sergeant. 

After retirement, RC initially moved to Pine Island, Florida then relocated to Sebring, Florida. RC’s interests were watching football, growing fruit, fishing, airplanes, and traveling with his family and friends. 

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Faith June Parker; their only son, Daniel E. Parker; and 2 siblings, Linda L. Gardner and John W. Smith. Richard is survived by his 2 daughters, Rita Gail Fox of Sebring, Florida and Freida Ann Traynor of Palatka, Florida, as well as 2 sisters, Sue O’Neal and Nora L. Adams. He is also survived by 2 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. 

Funeral services for Richard will be held on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 2pm at Craven-Shires Funeral Home in Bluefield, West Virginia. Interment will follow at the Woodlawn Memorial Park in Bluewell, West Virginia. Mercer County Veteran’s Honor Guard will conduct military gravesite rites. Cravens-Shires Funeral Home is serving the Parker family.