of Bryant, AR
October 26, 1931 - January 4, 2016
Coach Jimmy Dale "Red" Parker passed away Monday, January 4, 2016, after a long battle with heart disease. He was born October 26, 1931 in Hampton, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; his parents, Floyd and Madelyn Parker; a sister, Judy Wood; and a grandson, Logan Parker.
He is survived by two daughters, Vicki Wallace and Cindy Yoos (Herman) and a son, Jim Mack Parker (Robin). He is also survived by six grandchildren, Matthew Wallace, Julie Hollis, Lance Parker, Kristi Kendrick (Devin), Drew Yoos (Sara), and Elizabeth McKenna (Marc) and six great grandchildren, Taylor Wallace, Maddie Hollis, Parker Hollis, Anna Grace Hollis, Ella Parker, and Carter Kendrick.
After graduating from Rison High School in 1949 and Arkansas A&M College in the spring of 1953, he began his coaching career as the head football coach at Fordyce High School that fall. He spent eight years at Fordyce, the last three years highlighted by a 36-0 record. These were magical years for him; the memories created here and his love for the Fordyce community led him back to open a business in 1977 and return for a second stint as a football coach in 2003. He went on to coach college football at his alma mater, Arkansas A&M College (1961-1965), The Citadel (1966-1972), and Clemson University (1973-1976).
After spending three years out of coaching, he returned to the sideline as offensive coordinator for Vanderbilt University in the fall of 1980. He went on to be head coach at Southern Arkansas University for the 1981 season. He spent six years leading the Delta State football team (1982-1987) before taking the role of offensive coordinator at Ole Miss for four years (1988-1991). Many offensive records were broken during his stint at Ole Miss. After spending one year consulting with Hinds Junior College in Mississippi, he returned to the high school ranks at Rison (1993-1995). The Wildcats went on to a 15-0 State Championship season in 1995. He was called back to the college ranks in 1996 to Ouachita Baptist University and led the Tigers in their first three years of Division II football.
He returned to high school coaching for good in 1999, where he spent four years at Bearden (1999-2002) and four years at Fordyce (2003-2006). He retired from coaching in 2006 but decided in 2008 that retirement was not for him. He then took over the program at Woodlawn High School. With the declining health of Betty, he moved closer to family in 2009. He then accepted the job of starting a football program from scratch at Harmony Grove High School in Haskell. The overwhelming support from the administration, the coaching staff, the players, and entire community made for some of the most satisfying years of his career.
Throughout his coaching career he achieved numerous awards. Among them were the Atlantic Coast Conference Coach of the Year, the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame, the Citadel Sports Hall of Fame, Arkansas Sportswriters Hall of Fame, Dallas County Sports Hall of Fame, and the Coleman Dairy KATV Coach of the Year.
While the scores of his games are written in history books, it was the relationships he treasured the most. In his words, "To all the men who made up our football teams, it is my hope that you know how much I cared, and that I was always willing to risk losing your affection to see that you did the right thing. You need to know that I loved you enough to be a disciplinarian." (from RED: Beyond Football by Mary Magee)
The Parker family would like to thank all the players, coaches, and fans that played a part in the making of his career. His legacy will live on for many years to come.
A special thanks to all the doctors, nurses, and staff members at Baptist Health in Little Rock. From the LVAD Department to the 8th floor heart wing, he was cared for with love and compassion. Thanks to their expertise, he was able to continue to live out his dream of coaching football well beyond what anyone expected. While he was known for being a football coach, his pride and joy was his family. "Let it be very clear that my family is my heart, my soul, my strength, and my backbone." He will be dearly missed.
A celebration of Coach Parker's life will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, January 8, 2016 at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church, 12400 Interstate 30, Little Rock, Arkansas 72210. Interment will follow at Pinecrest Memorial Park in Alexander, Arkansas with his grandchildren serving as pallbearers. Coach Parker requested honorary pallbearers to be any former and current coaches and players in attendance.
Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Thursday, January 7, 2016 at Roller-Ballard Funeral Home, 306 South Main Street, Benton, Arkansas, 72015 (501-315-4047).
In lieu of flowers, the Parker family requests that donations be made to one of the following: Baptist Health Heart Transplant and VAD Institute, 9500 Kanis Rd. Suite 410, Little Rock, AR 72205, Fordyce Redbug Alumni Foundation, P.O. Box 57, Fordyce, AR 71742, or the Harmony Grove Football Program - Red Parker Memorial, 2621 Hwy. 229, Benton, AR 72015.
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55 Condolence(s)
Coach"Reddy"Cox
Tuesday, August 28, 2018
O loving God, through the heavenly intercession of Saint Padre Pio, welcome my beloved deceased friend Coach "Red" Parker into the company of the Saints, where tears are no more, all suffering and pain are ended and there is great joy, abundant life and peaceful rest in Your loving presence. Amen. RIP Coach !!!!!!!!!!! Thank You For Always Being There For Me !!!!!!!! God Bless Mrs. Parker and Jim Mack and the Family !!!!!!!!!! Coach "Reddy" Cox
Marvin O'Mary
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Unforgettable experience as a player and manager for "Coach" in 1956-59 and later filmed (taped) games for him in 2003-05. I loved him for his honesty and integrity. His memory was so good. I don't think he ever forgot anyone he ever knew or coached. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Marvin O'Mary
Hot Springs Village
Fordyce Class of 1960
Richard G. Everett
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Would like to extend our condolences to the family. I was in the first group Coach Parker brought in at The Citadel. He was tough and demanding on his players, and I have learned to love him for it. I will never forget him passing me as I was walking on campus in my senior year and stopping his car, getting out in the middle of the street, to offer his regrets as my mother had just passed away. He was a special person and loved greatly by the Citadel family. God bless.......
Larry & Debra Barnes
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
All these people are right he was all these things and I am proud to say he was my friend - enough said.
Melissa Witherington
Monday, January 11, 2016
Dear Vicky, Cindy, and Jimmy Mac, I remember when each of you was born. I am Jimmy's first cousin, one of few remaining. I talked to him on the phone on his birthday a few years ago and also talked to Betty, dear girl. I have studied the Witherington genealogy extensively. Your mother was very interested in what I had. She said, "For my children..." You are more than welcome to get in touch. I will be glad to share photos and a long line of ancestors.
L. Dugue
Sunday, January 10, 2016
You have my deepest sympathy. May the God of all comfort support the family and friends during this time of sorrow - 2 Corinthians 1: 3,4.
G.G. Galloway
Friday, January 8, 2016
Just heard tonight about the passing of coach . He was a not only a great coach but a great person. Our prayers and thoughts are with your family. Sincerely, I am, G.G. Galloway, Clemson 1972-1976
Bill/Rebecca W
Friday, January 8, 2016
We loved your dad and will miss him. He was an awesome man.
Roseann Phillips
Friday, January 8, 2016
My sincerest sympathy goes out to Coach's family. He was a remarkable man...one of a kind...a legacy in his own right. Admired by all. We are blessed to have been a part of his life. He will be missed by everyone that touched him.
Denise Abercrimbie
Friday, January 8, 2016
Coach was a great man. So sorry for your loss and praying for all of you for comfort and healing during this time.
piper
Friday, January 8, 2016
I love you uncle jimmy and the memories you gave us as such a young age. The legacy we did not know til older. We loved you for who you are and the experience most children will never have. Matt and I on sidelines. If cold we are in press box. I am grateful to be your family. I wished I could be there.
Garry Brown
Friday, January 8, 2016
Such a sad time for those left behind. My thoughts go out to the family. Coach was so special to all of us. For some reason, I think that he made everyone feel special....that's why we played our hearts out for him on the football field. He will surely be missed.
John "Turkey" Moore, Citadel Class 1971
Friday, January 8, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the family of Coach Red Parker. He was a great influence to many generations of football players. I benefited greatly from his coaching and guidance when I was a cadet and am most thankful for him for letting me be part of the Citadel football team and developing so many wonderful friends and teammates. He has cast a long shadow and will be greatly missed by many former players and friends across the South.
John E. "Turkey" Moore, Citadel Class 1971
Bart Langford
Friday, January 8, 2016
Vicki,
You all are in my prayers for the loss of your Dad. I know he had a wonderful life. God Bless you all.
Bart
Matt Snyder
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Gary Cowling SAU kicker
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Coach Parker was a great coach and a better person . We hit it off from day one we were only together for a short time but I have a lifetime of wonderful memories and stories I could tell about him he will greatly missed but never forgotten.I look forward to being on your team again in heavan one day .
Jimmy & Rosie Snowden
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Our deepest sympathy is extended to the family. It was a joy for many years working with Coach Parker and Betty at Red Parker Chevrolet for many years. I will s cherish their kindness and thoughtfulness always.
Terry Harpole
Thursday, January 7, 2016
I did not know Coach Parker, personally, but, I remember him being at Ole Miss.
We will keep all family in prayer
Linda Gilbert
Thursday, January 7, 2016
I am so very sorry for your lost. Coach Parker was a joy to work with and a friend. I am thinking of you all.
Harvey Hamilton
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
I was privileged to attend Arkansas A & M in 1961 when Coach Parker came there to coach. I walked on, but primarily due to size and weight, I did not receive a scholarship. On my exit interview, he encouraged me to work in the off season and return the following year. His remarks were so encouraging and inspiring and have been an influence my whole life since. The summer of 2014, I had the privilege of visiting him in his office at Harmony Grove. He was a great man who left his print on every life he touched. May God bless the family he loved so dearly.
Paul Wayne Harris
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
He was my first coach an best coach. Taught kids about life.
Marion Budgy Glover
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Coach Parker: our leader, our motivator, our inspiration, our teacher, our moral director, our thousand miles from home father, OUR COACH.
Vicki, Cindy, and Jim Mack , thank your for sharing your father with innumerable young men. He will continue to inspire us as long as we live. The Citadel 1966-1970
Jim Jordan
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
I met Coach Parker when I lived in Fordyce from 1978-1986. What a friend and coach he was. I played golf at Fordyce Country Club and if I saw him I would holler "I wish I had Red Parker today" and he would shout back "I wish you did to"--- He was such a great asset to coaching, Fordyce, Arkansas and all the places he coached. I played college football, not for him, but it would of been a pleasure to do so. I officiated some of his high school games and it was a honor and pleasure to do so. Coach will be missed but had a great life as a person and a coach. Jim Jordan- Hot Springs Village
Donna Whitaker Cairnes
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Sending prayers to all of you.
My twin sister and I had such respect and admiration for Coach Parker... He will be so missed; he touched many many lives. We knew him from A& M. Peace be with you.
Jackie Zorn
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Vickey, Cindy and Jim Mack - What a Dad you had! I feel like there is a vacant spot in the Universe, that won't easily be filled. I have so many great memories of him while playing at The Citadel. When he came to Clemson as head coach, I was there working on a graduate degree. (Cindy - remember the scene in the Clemson book store? You made me feel bigger than John Small!) When The Citadel came up to play the Tigers in Death Valley I wasn't sure who I'd pull for. As soon as the coin was flipped - I turned orange. He meant more to me than my alma mater. Want you to know that your Dad's story about the blind outfielder who played for the NY Yankees during World War II has been passed on to hundreds of kids playing ball in Anderson SC. And now that those kids are grown, they are telling the kids they are coaching. Memories of Coach Parker will continue to solicit smiles and laughter from generations of young athletes yet to come. Love you.
Duffy Small
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Heaven just gained one "dandy" of an angel! Coach Jimmy Red Parker had a huge impact on our son in such a short period of time. Coach Parker will always be held in highest regard in the SMALL home. I've had the pleasure of knowing him before he coached my son as a loving husband to Mrs. Betty. Very proud to say I had the honor of knowing them both. Much prayers and peace to the Parker family. Fly high coach Red!
The Small Family
Linda Elliott
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
My sympathy and prayers for Coach Parker's family. I met Coach Parker when I was a social worker in the Heart Transplant/VAD Program at Baptist Health. As a South Carolina native and Clemson fan, I immediately felt a special bond with him, and needless to say, he loved to talk about football😊. His charisma and friendliness made most anyone who had the privilege of knowing him, become an instant fan. His kindness, humbleness & optimism were an inspiration. He will be greatly missed.
Anne Fox
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
He gave so much of his heart to everyone and every thing he touched, his heart couldn't give anymore so he went to be an assistant in heaven!!
jb and june darnell
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
coach parker helped our son, John realize his dream of playing qb at ole miss. Will forever be grateful for the influence and encouragement he gave. A positive influence in every way! oh, to have more coaches like him for our young people. We talked to him after his last game and will always treasure that last conversation as will John. They talked frequently from 1990 up until his last game that he coached. John could go just so long without a coach parker talkL to the family we loved him and will forever be grateful that he was our friend.
Eddie Stingley
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Coach Parker made everyone who played for him feel special and that made Him special! Because of him I was able to get a college degree and he taught me much about life.
Graham Gillis
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
So sorry to hear about Coach. Great coach and family man. What a legacy he leaves. The Parker family are in my prayers.
Tom Utsey
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
He was born to coach. His formula for success on the field was simple, hard work and preparation. His style was tough and intense, but always with a purpose. His magic was that he made us believe that if we did what he asked, we would be winners. He was right.
I owe a lot to him and his staff at the Citadel. They shaped my life in ways that have extended way beyond football.
My best to Vicky, Cindy and Jim Mack.
Tom Utsey
The Citadel, 1967-71
Travis, Tina, Tommy, Tanner & Trent Oden
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
We love you Coach Red you will be greatly missed. Don't be to hard on the Angels as you teach them how to play football in Heaven.
Joy Amason
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
May God comfort your family during this time.
Mildred Hall Green
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
What a beautiful legacy for Coach, he will be greatly missed by all those whose lives he touched and influenced. I will always remember how caring he was, and the many times he would take time out of his busy day to have a conversation with his "Redbug Kids". My thoughts and prayers will be with his beloved family. Redbug Class of 1961
Carla Soffos
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with you all! May God wrap His loving arms around each one of you!
Mary and Jim Magee
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
We can't help the sadness that comes with saying goodbye to a larger than life legend like Coach Parker. The greatest comfort in dealing with his loss is knowing that his spirit and life lessons live on in his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, players, students and all who called him friend. We are members of a unique and blessed group. He left his magic mark on all of us and we are so much better for it. Heaven just got a lot more fun…and active!
Paula Tanner
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
COACH left an indelible impact on many lives. My husband never forgot the great influence that Coach Parker had in his life. Thinking of you all with love.
Elva Jo Wylie
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Vicki,Jim Mack, & Parker Family I'm so sorry about Coach Parker. I bought several cars from him when he was in the car business. He was a nice man.My thoughts & prayers are with you at this sad time.
Cheryle Highsmith
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Vickie, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Pat McDermott Scavo
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Coach Parker meant so much to so many. My father, Coach Loyd McDermott respected his football knowledge and his love of the game. He exemplified the best qualities of a teacher of young men and truly loved each and every player he coached. His legacy will continue through them. RIP Coach Jimmy "Red" Parker.
Ray Barraclough
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Great man and coach. I knew Coach Parker through Marion Glover and the coaching profession. Was an assistant for one season at Woodlawn. Great experience. Love to Jim Mack and all the family.
Michael Alewine
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Dear Cindy: I am very sorry to learn of your dad's passing. He was so much fun to be around. I especially remember going to the game with you and your parents in "the upstate." Your father was very warmly greeted that day by the fans he had won over during his coaching days there. He truly found his passion in life and was a great inspiration to so many. Thinking of you at this emotional time. Mike
rob & elaine Fox
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
I will always remember him:
citadel square baptist
the bullhorn in the tower
the penalty box
his office
What a man!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kellye Heflin Foster
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Coach Red was a great friend to my Daddy and a great mentor to my son. He unselfishly gave of his time to any kid that might need some guidance, whether it be in football or life. He will always hold a special place in our hearts. He will truly be missed. Our prayers are with his family.
Bob Weeks
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Coach Parker touched so many lives during the lcourse of his long life, having coached many,many football players. He did what he enjoyed most, and that lasted 60+ years. Everyone who ever knew him will miss him very much. RIP, Coach.
Mr. R. Allison Dalton
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
To the family of Coach Parker we wish to offer our sincere sympathy and to share our great appreciation and respect for the wonderful Christian life of Coach Parker. It was our pleasure to know Coach Parker and his family while he served as Head Coach at Clemson University. Knowing him and watching his impact on young athletes was a blessing. May God be with you all during this time.
Blessings,
Mr. and Mrs. R. Allison Dalton
Easley, SC
Hoyt and Lee Bunn
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
It was a privilege to know "Red" Parker. It was fun being around him. He touched our lives in so many ways. He took special care of us at UAM when we were struggling. Many others will testify to the same thing. We will miss him. We wish the family peace during this time.
David Denman
Monday, January 4, 2016
There will never be a combination coach and man like Coach Parker. I went to Ark. A&M primarily to be under his coaching. His Christian guidance was superior to any coach I have known, and his relationship with athletes was like a father and brother. He is a happy man in Heaven with Jesus. May God bless his family during this time of coping with their loss.
Tim Knowles
Monday, January 4, 2016
Thank you Coach for everything you taught me. You helped make me the man I am today. You impacted so many lives. You will be greatly missed.
Rison Wildcats #42
1995 Class A State Champions.
Telissa Pierce Soto
Monday, January 4, 2016
I have grown up my whole life knowing Coach Parker and family. He was such a great man, and touched so many in his life. God gained a good man and we will forever be grateful for what he did here on earth. Prayers with the family at this heartbreaking time.
Margaret Prewitt
Monday, January 4, 2016
My heart is broken at the loss of MY SPECIAL FRIEND. Vicki, Jim Mack, and Cindy, you had a great man for a dad and I dearly loved your mom. The pain is lessened when I think about him being free of pain and in the presence of your Mom once again. My prayers are for your peace and comfort. RIP Coach.
Eunice Watson Pierce
Monday, January 4, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time of sorrow. He was a great man, coach, and friend. He touched so many lives during his lifetime. My brother and grandson played for him many years apart. We all loved him and will miss him.
RONDELL & JANE HARRISON
Monday, January 4, 2016
Families and friends, students...everyone,
We lost OUR COACH today. All who played for him in any venue, more particularly FOOTBALL, were mentored by the finest man that ever walked. Our FHS Class of "59..final season fall '58, two weeks before our season, lost our friend/classmate/fullback..FRANKLIN STRONG. It was such a shock..summer...school out. Small community as we were, Coach Parker got us all together. He aided us handling the grief, as a father would have handled it. I have never forgotten his love shown all of us as he gave to the Strong family.
Kent Smurl
Monday, January 4, 2016
Very sad day
A Great Loss
He touched so many lives
In a great way
My GOD BLESS The Family