Richard D. Parker, 82 of Moodus, beloved husband of Carol (Sipples) Parker, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 9, 2024, at his residence with his family at his side.

He was born in Laconia, N.H., son of the late Richard N. and Edna (Moulton) Parker. He graduated from Nathan Hale-Ray High School, class of 1960. He was a dedicated alumni who gave back to the school system for over 60 years. He was a founding member of the Nathan Hale-Ray High School Alumnus Association and Nathan Hale-Ray High School Sports Hall of Fame. He was a very proud member of Nathan Hale-Ray High School Boys Soccer Team especially during the 1958 season where he was identified as one of the "Zero Boys".

He attended Mitchel College from 1960-1962 obtaining an associate's degree and was a member of the men's soccer and basketball teams, excelling in both.  He then went on to attend the University of Hartford obtaining three degrees in the field of Education.  A bachelor's degree, a master's degree and 6th year degree in Education.  He was a member of the University of Hartford's men's soccer team where he also excelled.

Upon completion of college, he was drafted but decided to enlist in the United States Army.  He served for three years from 1965 to 1968 in the Army's Counterintelligence Corp. and earned the rank of Seargent.

Richard's life was defined by his commitment to family and community.  He was vice- chairman of the Democratic Town Committee.  He served for 40 years as vice chair or chairman of, the Ray Board of Trustees.  He was a member of, and at one time the secretary and vice chairman of the East Haddam Lions Club.  He was a member of the American Legion, the Nathan Hale-Ray High School Alumni Association and the Nathan Hale-Ray High School Sports and Hall of Fame.

He was a dedicated educator, having worked for East Lyme School District for 37 years. He was one of the founding fathers of East Lyme High School.  He started and coached the boys' varsity soccer team, coached basketball and was the head of the social studies department and a marching band chaperone.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carol (Sipples) Parker, and his cherished children Suszanne Miner and her husband Christopher of Moodus, Brian Parker of East Haddam and his partner Mary-Jo Machel of East Hampton, a sister Brenda Barber of East Haddam, two brothers, Roy Parker (Cindy) and Bradley Parker of East Haddam. Richard was the proud grandfather to two grandsons, Jack and Ryan Miner of Moodus who were a source of immense joy in his life. Also, very close to him were the Sullivan family of Moodus. He was predeceased by a brother, Bruce Parker.

Richard was an avid woodworker.  He loved to travel and camp with his family and friends.  He loved to garden and attend all local sporting events with Carol.  He was kind and loving and fiercely committed to his family.  He understood the and modeled the need for service to his community.  He was proud of where he came from.  He was a gentleman and scholar.  He fought valiantly until the end and then slipped peacefully away surrounded by those that loved him most.  All those that came into contact with him were better for it.  His absence will leave a hole in our family, but his life has made a mark on this world.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver Street, Middletown, on Sunday, December 15, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.  A Funeral Liturgy will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Church on Monday, December 16, 2024, at 10:30 am.  Internment with military honors will follow at the State Veterans' Cemetery, 317 Bow Lane, Middletown.

Memorial Donations may be made to The Veterans Association, The Lewy Body Demetia Association, Special Olympics of Connecticut, or East Haddam Youth and Family Services in Richard's memory.  To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com