Mary Lou Parker

Mary Lou Parker, affectionately known as Memaw, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on July 2, 1932, in Milan, Georgia, she dedicated her life to her family and her faith. Mary Lou was the daughter of the late L.M. Darlington and Bertha Reddick Darlington.

Mary Lou was a devoted member of Fredonia Baptist Church for 65 years, where she played an active role in the community, particularly in running the nursery and caring for the younger members of the congregation. Her unwavering commitment to her church and family was a testament to her compassionate spirit.

Raised in a loving household as one of nine siblings in Dixie, Mary Lou maintained strong ties with her family throughout her life, embodying the essence of togetherness and love. Her strength and dedication were evident in every aspect of her life. Mary Lou was a devoted wife and a proud mother of five children.

Survivors include her children, Timothy Parker (Jackie) of Thomasville, Malory Parker (Debra) of Thomasville, Glenda Savage (Darrell) of West Palm Beach, Mickey Parker (Sharon) of Thomasville, and Tammy Pope (Daryl) of Albany; grandchildren, Jamie Barrineau (Devin), Kimberly Smith (Daniel), Shae Taylor (Jason), Lance Parker (Alison), Brian Keirn, Susu Keirn, Tisha Savage, Darylyn Howell (Adam), Catherine Crosby (Thomas), Carly Avera (Brandon), Chelsea Harvey (Chris), Lauren Earnest (Bailey), Brandon Pope, and 14 great-grandchildren; siblings Martha Blundell (Ray) of Texas and Mamie McCullough of Texas followed by numerous neices and nephews.

Mary Lou is preceded in death by her husband, Ernest Rudelle Parker, Jr., grandson Robert Pope, and siblings Richard Darlington, Voncile Taylor, Evelyn Harmon, Douglas Darlington, June Lewis, and Joe Darlington.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at 2 pm at Fredonia Baptist Church Cemetery with pastor Judson Maxwell officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 1-2 pm prior to the service.

Donations may be made to the Fredonia Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 1855 Fredonia Rd, Thomasville, GA 31757.