William Dean Parker, Sr.

Dean's Life Story

Minister William Dean Parker, Sr., affectionately known as "Dean" was born on July 23, 1962, to the late Andrew J. Parker Sr. and Rosetta Jones Parker in Prattville, Alabama.

Dean committed his life to Christ at an early age and was baptized at the Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church where he served as an Associate Minister until his untimely death. While at Bethesda, Dean reconstituted the Male chorus and served as a faithful member of the Bethesda Anointed Spiritual Singers choir. He was well known for his passion for music and his sultry voice.

Dean also was a member of numerous singing groups including, The Spiritual Echoes and the Sounds of Heaven (a family group which he established).

Dean graduated from Autaugaville High School in 1980. After High School, he enlisted into the United States Army where he served 4 years and received an honorable discharge. In 2004, Dean had a life altering motorcycle accident which confined him to a wheelchair. He didn't let the wheelchair define him, but it renewed his faith in God. He was always filled with faith, joy, and laughter. Prior to his accident, he was a part of the Jam Riders Motorcycle Bike Club where he became officially known as the "Terminator".

He had an enormous heart filled with love for God and his family and he was loved by many; Those who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him, knew how determined and independent he was despite his situation. He made an impact on many people and will continuously live through those of us he loved and those who loved him.

He gained his wings on May 27, 2022. He was preceded in death by his loving parents; one son, William Dean "Cochise" Parker Jr.

He leaves behind to cherish his memories: one caring daughter, DeAnna Hardy of Birmingham, AL; one son, Terrell (Shaquinta) Morgan, of Prattville, AL; three sisters, Awilda Graeber of Bessemer, AL; Patrishia Jackson; and Trina Parker of Prattville, AL; two brothers Andrew J. Parker Jr. and Fabian (Lakeshia) Parker, both of Prattville, AL; five grandchildren, Alyssa, CJ, Kennedy, Janae, and Novah; one uncle, Rufus Jones, both of Autaugaville, AL; one aunt, Deloris Jones of Anniston, AL; a special nephew, DeVonta Johnson, Prattville, AL; a God-sent sister, Sharon Parker of Autaugaville, AL; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

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