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Robert Parker, 78, of LaGrange, peacefully passed away on Feb. 11, 2020, at West Georgia Hospice surrounded by his family.

Robert Brewell Parker, Jr. was born on January 9, 1942 in LaGrange, Georgia. He was the first of Brewell and Velma Parker’s three children whom they raised in the Oak Grove and Pleasant Grove communities. He grew up a faithful member of Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church where he and his siblings learned the importance of faith in Christ.

 His was the first class to begin newly-established Troup High School, graduating in 1960. His postsecondary education included LaGrange College then Southern Technical Institute where he earned an architectural engineering degree. Once equipped with the skills to follow in his daddy’s footsteps, he began a career in building construction. He worked briefly for Daniel Lumber Company as an estimator before his ambitions drove him to establish his first proprietorship, R. Parker Construction. 

In 1981, Robert decided to focus his trade skills on wood truss manufacturing by founding Robert’s Components. 

He worked tirelessly and faithfully creating design solutions for a variety of custom building projects for countless members of the community. Many of his business acquaintances became friends who often said about Robert, “If he gave you his word, you could take it to the bank.”

He found other ways to serve the community, too. As a member of the First United Methodist Church of LaGrange, West Georgia Home Builders Association, Gideons International and Troup High School Alumni Association. He devoted time contributing to the prosperity of the next generation.

One of Robert’s most meaningful attributes was dedication; a steady presence in the lives of his family. He was a devoted husband to Barbara for 55 years. 

They felt great purpose in raising their two sons who gave them eight grandchildren. As a proud granddaddy he found joy in attending their activities. 

In his free time he enjoyed boating on West Point Lake, hunting and riding his motorcycle. He was an expert craftsman who designed ornate wood work in a meticulous manner. He was soft spoken, well respected and a loyal friend who will be greatly missed.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Brewell Parker and Velma Harrison Parker. He is survived by his wife Barbara Simmons Parker; brother G. Wayne Parker and his wife Faye Hamby Parker of Land O Lakes, Florida; sister Glenda Parker Butler and husband Kenneth E. Butler of West Point; his son Robert Brewell “Bob” Parker III and wife Kristy Barnes Parker of Pine Mountain; his son John Mark Parker and wife Jill Thomason Parker of LaGrange; grandchildren Caroline, Brew, Gracie, Livie, Bailey, Harley, Lexi and Tuff Parker; extended family and friends.

The celebration of life service will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, 2020 at First United Methodist Church of LaGrange with Rev. Larry Bird, Rev. Max McCord, and Rev. Ben Wills officiating. Burial will follow in Shadowlawn Cemetery. 

The gathering of family and friends will be on Saturday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at First United Methodist Church of LaGrange.

 Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting shlagrange.com. 

Arrangements are by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange, GA 30240 (706) 884-8636.