Ralph Parker

Ralph Parker, 85 years old has gone to be with his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ on February 16, 2025. His parents were Roy and Elsie Parker. Predeceasing him were his brothers, Dr. George Parker and Rev. Robert Parker.

Ralph early accepted the Lord as his Saviour.

He started piano lessons at 7 years old.

At 14 years old he came to the Ben Lippen School in Asheville, NC. There he fully dedicated his life to the Lord, “For me to live is Christ, to die is gain” has been his life verse. Ralph was a quiet man with great integrity.

After Ben Lippen he graduated from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, IL. At Moody, he met Doris, his beloved wife of 64 years. He then went on to the University of Northwestern in Minneapolis, MN, where he received his bachelor’s degree in music education.

Following college, he came back to Ben Lippen in 1964 and was there for 16 years. He was the music director, director of the Touring Concert Choir and taught piano, voice, and brass instruments. Teaching the students brought him so much joy.

He worked for Sysco Food Services for 16 ½ years and in retirement worked for Circle 8 Foods.

He played the piano or organ in churches for 70 years. He enjoyed every service.

Ralph and Doris’s children are Paul Parker (Michelle), Jonathan Parker (Carmen), and Sharon Parker. They have six grandchildren and six great grandchildren. He loved his family very much.

A celebration service will be held Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 1:00PM at Bethel Baptist Church at 125 Ben Lippen Road, Asheville, NC 28806. Rev. Mark Lewis and Rev. Tommy Wilkes will officiate. Memorials may be made to the Gideons International.

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