Willie Boyd Parker was born on December 30, 1920 on a farm in Eagletown, a small community in far southeast Oklahoma. He was the fifth child of Louis and Julia Ann Parker. He accepted Christ at an early age and was raised in St. Matthew Baptist Church where he learned Christian values and developed character that sustained him throughout his entire life.

His wife of 72 years, Beatrice Lewis Parker, preceded him death. Also, his parents and eight siblings preceded him in death: Luther Parker, Bertha White, Robert Paker, Berlin Parker, Burnett Parker, and Clara Munn. He was also preceded in death by his son-in-law, James Downs.

He was united in marriage to Beatrice Lewis on December 26, 1944. This union was blessed with three children, Winfred Lee, Marva LaRue, and Mary Esther.

Willie B. graduated from Dunbar High School in Broken Bow, OK and entered Langston University where her graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1943 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Education. He earned a Master of Science degree from Oklahoma State University in 1958 and completed post graduate hours in Counseling from Central State University (now UCO).

Mr. Parker taught Vocational Agriculture, Mathematics and Science at Dunjee High School for 25 years. As the Vocational-Agriculture teacher, Mr. Parker sponsored the New Farmers of America (NFA), and organization of African American students studying agriculture. He sponsored his students to annual state and national competitions where they won many awards in judging livestock.

Rev. Parker served 46 years as senior pastor of the Loving St. James Baptist Church located in the Dunjee community. At the age of 102, he continued to serve as Pastor Emeritus. He sincerely loved all people and faithfully lived the motto, "what you give lives." Rev. Parker recommended and the church approved Rev. Edward E. White to serve after his retirement.

He served on numerous boards and participated in many organizations. He is the founder of Operation Cloud of Witnesses, an organization that gave over $100,00.00 in scholarships to high school graduates and college students. He also founded SCOPE (State & Community Organization Promoting Education) which supported both Opportunities Industrialization Center of OK County and Langston University with annual contributions. Rev. Parker was a dedicated servant and he received numerous awards and recognition for his service.

His memory will be cherished by: One son, Winfred Lee Parker (Roberta); two daughters, Marva White (Eddie); and Mary Parker Downs, all of Oklahoma City; five grandchildren; Patrick Parker of Atlanta, Johnetta Parker Rowe of Oklahoma City, Ebony Parker Laster of Atlanta, Natalie Dawn White and Nathan Edward White both of Oklahoma City; Jaree Downs-Morgan (Keyland) of Austin, TX, Janae Downs-Francis (Jimmy) and Audrey Downs (Alison) both of Dallas, TX; twenty great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren. He also leaves many nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.