Elmo E. Parker, age 84, departed this life and entered into his heavenly reward on August 12, 2020, at his home in Piedmont, MO. He was born August 13, 1935, in Brunot, MO, to Oscar and Nellie (Hinkle) Parker who preceded him in death. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife Imogene; four brothers: Glen, Nolan, Roy and Zan Parker; three sisters: Lora Heath, Thena Wilson and Mildred Wilson; and great-granddaughter Sienna Faith Miller. He leaves to mourn three children: Cheryl Haggett and husband Rick of Steelville, MO, Jeff Parker and wife Aggie of Piedmont, MO, and Patti Miller and husband Scott also of Piedmont, six grandchildren: Sara Edgy and husband Lucas, Carrie Street and husband Jerod, all of Piedmont, MO, Rachael Garber and husband Grant of Ripley, WV, Aaron Miller and wife Lori, Andrew Miller and wife Andrea, and Asher Miller, all of Piedmont; sixteen great-grandchildren; one sister, Priscilla Clements and husband Johnny of Des Arc, MO; a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, as well as his Victory Baptist Temple Church family. At the young age of nine, Elmo accepted Christ as his Savior. While attending Des Arc High School, he fell in love with Imogene Tucker and on May 21, 1955, they married and enjoyed sixty-four wonderful years together. Soon, he surrendered to God’s call, and was ordained to the Gospel Ministry in October of 1959. For over sixty years, he and Imogene served the Lord together. In his early years of ministry, he pastored several churches, and did evangelism work while working full time at Brown Shoe Company in Piedmont. In 1977, he ended his twenty-seven-year career there and retired from his foreman position. Upon retirement, God led him to start Victory Baptist Temple, and he served faithfully as pastor for forty-three years. Most recently, the congregation lovingly bestowed to him the title” Pastor Emeritus” which he held until his death. Those who met him found him to be a man of character, courage, compassion, and conviction. His life was not about himself; it was about his Lord and serving others. With holy reverence for God’s Word, his faith, and focus stayed true. He loved people, but even more, he loved their eternal soul. He preached salvation and modeled Godly obedience. We, as his family, are comforted in knowing he is now resting and rejoicing in the presence of his Lord, to whom he dedicated his life. We cling to the assurance of God’s Grace, as He in his infinite wisdom, determined the right timing of his home-going. Though deeply saddened by our loss, we are grateful for the many years enriched by his influence. To God be the Glory!! Visitation was held at 5:00 pm, Monday, August 17, 2020, at Victory Baptist Temple Church, Piedmont. Funeral service was held at 11:00 am, Tuesday, August 18, 2020, also at Victory Baptist Temple Church. Bro. Jeff Parker, Bro. Scott Miller, and Bro Rick Haggett ministered to the family. Aaron Miller, Andrew Miller, Asher Miller, Grant Garber, Lucas Edgy, and Jerod Street served as pallbearers. Burial followed at Beulah Cemetery, Brunot, MO. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com
