Mr. Roy Martin Parker, lovingly known by his grandchildren as “Papa Amen” because of his unapologetic and unwavering love for the Lord, passed away peacefully within the familiar comforts of his own home, surrounded by his faithful and loving family, on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 2:30 p.m., following an extended illness. Though his earthly journey has ended, his family finds comfort in knowing that Roy has now entered into the eternal presence of the Savior whom he so faithfully loved and served throughout his life.

Roy was born on January 3, 1945, in Youngstown, Ohio, to the late George J. Parker and Doris Mae (St. John) Parker. Life later brought him to Elkhart, Indiana, where he would build a beautiful life centered around faith, family, hard work, and kindness. On June 30, 1994, he married the love of his life, Carol S. Hartman, in Elkhart. Together they shared more than 32 wonderful years of love, laughter, companionship, and steadfast devotion. Carol survives at home, holding tightly to the cherished memories she shared with her sweet “Honeybun,” while finding peace in knowing he has been reunited with his heavenly family.

Along with his parents, Roy was preceded in death by his brother, Earl Parker; his beloved granddaughter, Stacy Wilson; and his precious great-grandson, Keason Stanley.

Left to cherish Roy’s memory are his devoted wife, Carol Parker of Elkhart; daughters, April Lynn (Joe) Plummer of Elkhart, Kelly Sue Wilson of Goshen, and Amy Lynn (Steve) Wantz of Goshen; brothers, Kenny Parker of Lexington, Kentucky, Jim (Dixie) Parker of San Jose, California, and John (Renee) Parker of Ohio; and his sister, Betty Jean Summey of Sturgis, Michigan.

Roy also leaves behind a treasured legacy through his grandchildren: Ashley (Brad) Slagel, David Plummer, Tim Stanley, Alexis Stanley, Christian, Walter, Zachary, and Ryker Wantz; James Wilson; Tracy (Angel) Urquizo; Staphany (Joaquin) Pena-Wilson; Kiaha Nichols. His love continues on through his great-grandchildren, Violet Plummer; Atlas, Aria, Kingston, and Khaza Stanley; Braydon, Liam, and McKenna Slagle; Natalia, Nalani, Naomi, and Nehemiah Pena-Wilson, Valencia Urquizo and Teran Nichols. Roy is further survived by a host of loving extended family members, dear friends, and brothers and sisters in Christ who were all blessed by his wisdom, encouragement, and steadfast faith.

In accordance with Roy’s wishes, cremation has taken place under the care and direction of Billings Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkhart. Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Roy’s life at Calvary Assembly of God Church, 1010 E. Mishawaka Road, Elkhart, where visitation will be held from 5:00 until 6:00 p.m. A memorial service honoring Roy’s life and faith will immediately follow at 6:00 p.m., officiated by Pastors Brian and Nathan Whidden.

Roy proudly served his country in the United States Army as an SP4 with the 78th Artillery, 2nd Armored Division at Fort Hood, Texas. During his military service, he served as a chauffeur for a Captain and earned distinction with a Sharpshooter qualification badge. He carried the discipline and integrity learned during his service throughout the remainder of his life.

Following his honorable discharge, Roy dedicated more than 40 years of faithful employment to the J.J. Babbitt Company in Elkhart, where he machined mouthpieces for woodwind instruments with remarkable precision and craftsmanship. Roy often found it fascinating that the very machine he operated had once been retooled from producing ammunition during World War II—a quiet reminder of history woven into his everyday work.

More than anything else, however, Roy will be remembered for his deep and abiding Christian faith. His relationship with Jesus Christ was not merely something he spoke about—it was the very foundation upon which he built his life. He served faithfully in several churches throughout the years as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, ordained minister, mentor, and encourager to countless people. Roy seemed to always know exactly which scripture someone needed to hear during difficult moments. His Bible, worn thin from years of constant reading, studying, underlining, and handwritten notes, reflected the depth of his devotion. Its dog-eared and ink-stained pages told the story of a man who genuinely treasured God’s Word and sought daily wisdom from it.

Roy’s faith was matched only by his servant’s heart. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, whether fixing a lawn mower for a neighbor, assisting someone in need, or caring lovingly for his aging parents during their later years. He found joy in simple blessings and honest work. Roy loved trout fishing, hunting, tying his own fishing flies, collecting coins and baseball cards, and spending time outdoors. He took great pride in maintaining his yard and keeping things neat and beautiful. He also served for many years as a Notre Dame Stadium usher alongside his dear friend, the late Paul Neel.

Above all, Roy cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether sharing stories, traveling to the mountains, or simply enjoying life’s quieter moments together, he created memories that will forever remain treasured in the hearts of those who loved him.

Though his family grieves his passing, they rejoice in knowing that Roy’s life was a testimony of faith, humility, love, and service. His legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed enough to know him.

Memorial donations may be made in Roy’s honor to Andrew Wommack Ministries.