Mr. James Leslie Parker, age 64 of Bedford, departed this life on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital. He was born on March 6, 1959, to the late James W. Parker and Geraldine Wright Parker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his niece Alisha Parker Joseph.

James was educated in the Bedford County School System. He was a God-fearing man and he loved his family. He would make weekly phone calls to his relatives, and he wouldn't end the call without saying "I love you."

James was a Washington Redskins fan. He also enjoyed watching basketball, cooking and working word puzzles. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Those left to cherish his memory are: his wife Carolyn O. Parker; three sisters Janice (Malcolm) Curtis, Gloria Parker and Shelby Parker; brother Jeffery Parker; nephew Kaylan Parker; nieces Antoinette King and Synethia Curtis; stepchildren Colleen Carper, Russell Carper and Angela Carper; a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.

I Made It Home

I just wanted to let you know that I made it home.
The journey wasn't an easy one, but it didn't take too long.

Everything is so pretty here, so white, so fresh and new.
I wish that you all could close your eyes,

and that you could see it too.

Please try not to be sad for me. Try to understand.
God is taking care of me… I'm in the shelter of His hands.

Here there is no sadness, no sorrow, and no pain.
Here there is no crying and I'll never hurt again.

Here it is so peaceful when all the angels sing.
I really have to go for now… I've just got to try my wings.