Denise Parker was born on July 13, 1964, in Tucson, AZ, to Orzine Richardson (Price) and was the youngest of four siblings. She grew up as a Seventh-Day Adventist where as a teenager, she participated in their Pathfinders program, which fostered her love of hiking and camping in addition to increasing her knowledge about the Lord.
Denise moved to San Diego, CA, to join her eldest sister Scellia Ann McFadden. In addition to having five beautiful daughters and marrying Evans Parker, she also embarked on her career in early childhood development. Starting as a substitute teacher, Denise eventually became an area director for the Neighborhood Housing Association.
Socially, Denise enjoyed dancing and was a long-time member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign War. She was an avid Raiders fan, and after watching their games, she enjoyed watching the TV show, Power. She enjoyed R&B and gospel music, with her favorite artist being Yolanda Adams. She joined and devoted her life to Christ at Ambassadors for Christ Missionary Baptist Church. There she joined the church’s women’s group, DIVAS, and the choir.
Denise was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was feisty and fun. She loved her family. She loved to laugh and bring laughter to others. She will be forever remembered for her amazing skills in the kitchen. Denise would freely open her home, not only to family members but also to other friends and friends of friends in need.
For the last several years of her life, Denise suffered from many health issues. Despite often being in pain, she was still a rock for her family and friends. She was a very strong and driven woman who did not let anything or anyone deter her.
Denise transitioned on September 9, 2022, at the age of fifty-eight.
Denise was greeted in heaven by her brother Timothy Richardson and sister-in-love Patricia Wolf and is survived by her loving mother, Orzine Price (San Diego); husband, Evans Parker; siblings Scellia Ann (Danny) McFadden, Michael Richardson, and Patricia Fitzgerald (honorary sister); five daughters Orzine (Jay) Venable, Keshiona Bryant, Condaleezza Bolar, Tina (Namdi) Azubogu, and Evanneezza (Shun) Randall; grandchildren Jayla, K’Hari, Jayson, Mya, Kadence, Kyra, and Kyanna; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, friends, and other loved ones.
